Clifford Albert Asselstine
January 10, 1929 - February 22, 2015
As published in the March 2, 2015 World-Spectator
It is with deep sadness that we must say goodbye to our beloved husband, brother, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.
Cliff was born on the eve of the great depression in Kirkella, Man. As hard as it must have been during the depression, Cliff’s memoirs speak to a happy childhood. "I remember that every night dad and mom would wash some wheat; then grind it in a hand grinder and mom would make it into porridge in the morning for breakfast. It was very good. We were never short of food."
During his early adult life he worked on the family farm and traveled the countryside playing jazz and swing guitar for Gene and his Swing Kings. It was through these travels that he met a shy and quiet waitress named Anne Johnson.
Cliff and Anne, who by then was a registered nurse, were married on November 16, 1957. In 1958 they moved to Birtle, Man. and commenced raising five children and starting two businesses. "The next years while our children were growing up, without a doubt, were the best years of our lives."
Cliff was a strong and honest man, committed to his values, to his community, to his friends and foremost to his family. From 1974 to 1979, he was the Chairman of the Birtle Community District Board and was a driving force for the construction of a new skating rink. Cliff also sat on town council from 1966 to 1970 and was the mayor of Birtle from 1983 to 1990. Cliff’s love for the countryside and for nature is evident in his masterful paintings; a secret talent he kept hidden until his later years.
Cliff is survived by his wife Anne, sister Vera (Anderson), daughter Joanne Brooks (Frank), son David Asselstine (Caroline), son Paul Asselstine (Shaunna), daughter Christine Murdoch (Brian), son Ryan Asselstine (Lesli), eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
In respect of Cliff’s wishes, there will be a small family service.
Say not in grief: "He is no more," but live in thankfulness that he was.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Cliff to the Alzheimer’s Society of Manitoba. Family and friends may sign a book of condolence at www.glenlawn.ca. Glen Lawn Funeral Home 1-204-982-7550.
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