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CLIFFORD KOLSON
Date of Passing: Jan 02, 2019
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryCLIFFORD KOLSON On January 2, 2019, Cliff was called home to paradise by his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Cliff passed peacefully at home with his wife at his side, after living with ALS for the last four years. He will be missed immensely by his loving wife of 40 years, Val; daughters, Andrea (Glenn) and Tracy (Roberto); grandchildren, Santiago, Isaac, Micah, Adelina, and Ivy; brothers, Dave (Gisèle) and Dan (Gayle); Val's siblings, Joanne (Tim), Michelle (Grant), and Mike (Lisa); and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Cliff was a man of great faith, and he wanted each and everyone of you to know the unconditional love of God as he did. Jesus lived for you, He died for you, and He was resurrected for you. God's amazing grace is for everyone, and nothing you do or don't do can take it away if you believe in Jesus and His promise of eternal life. Knowing this brought Cliff great comfort and peace throughout his life, following his diagnosis, and up until he took his final breath. "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast." Eph. 2:8-9 Cliff grew up in a loving family, with his mom (Eleanora), dad (Edward), and his two younger brothers. Cliff created a wonderful family of his own, starting when he met his beautiful wife Val at university and marrying her a few years later in 1978. The family grew when his daughters were born. They were his absolute pride and joy. Much later, two sons-in-law and five grandchildren were added. Sunday family dinners became a staple in Cliff's life the last few years and were a highlight of everyone's week. Cliff always worked hard at everything he did. He loved going to work every day and had his illness not interfered, he may never have retired! Cliff spent the majority of his career at Maxim Truck and Trailer, as the Executive Vice President, a job he absolutely loved and was extremely good at. Cliff was so very proud of the company that he had a hand in building. Throughout his life, Cliff always enjoyed sports, including hockey, baseball, squash, racquetball, golf, skiing, and water sports. He also looked forward to his annual fishing and hunting trips with friends and colleagues. He loved to travel and was fortunate enough to be able to do a lot of travelling with Val, the kids, and many great friends over the years. In the last six years, what Cliff loved most was spending time with his grandchildren - playing with them, teasing them, getting them in trouble, and watching them play, grow up, and develop personalities of their own. The lake was one of Cliff's absolute favourite places, starting at Lac Lu with his parents and then Pinawa Bay with Val and the girls. Spending time at the cabin, either working or playing with people he loved - boating, tubing, water skiing, golfing, fishing, snowmobiling, bonfires, card games, and so much more - was something that he always looked forward to. In the last few years, seeing his grandkids out at the lake doing all those same things brought him so much joy. Val and the girls would like to thank Cliff's excellent caregivers, Justina, Genesis, Joney, Heidi, and Pat, as they cared for him and grew to be a part of the family. Special thanks also to Carol Scott, Cliff's community occupational therapist, and his family physician, Dr. Shawn Thomas. Words cannot express the gratitude we feel for the kind and gentle care you provided to our husband and dad. Thank you also to the ALS Society of Manitoba, the ALS / Motor Neuron Disease Clinic at Deer Lodge Centre, and the palliative care team who allowed Cliff to remain at home and remain as independent (in the early years) and comfortable (in the later years) as possible. Thank you also to the many family, friends, and colleagues who supported Cliff and Val with visits, meals, flowers, phone/FaceTime calls, and of course prayers. Many thanks to Pastor Brad and Pastor Glenn for their continued spiritual guidance. The diagnosis of ALS took us all by surprise, and was never something that we thought we would have to navigate. But thanks to his unwavering faith, Cliff faced the challenge head on, with dignity, humility, and strength. We will miss him more than words can express, but are comforted knowing that he is at peace and that his earthly struggle is over. A memorial service will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, January 23, 2019, at Peace Lutheran Church, 350 Gilmore Avenue. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Peace Lutheran Church Memorial Fund (350 Gilmore Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R2G 2B7), Siloam Mission (300 Princess Street, Winnipeg, MB R3B 1M3), or the ALS Society of Manitoba (2A-1717 Dublin Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3H 0H2).
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 05, 2019
Condolences & Memories (18 entries)
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Val, in talking with Doug Harvey today I learned of Cliff's passing. I am so sorry to hear that. It only seems like yesterday we were all in Commerce starting out in life and here we are nearing the end for many of us. He had a great career and was well respected. It has been many years since I spoke with Cliff but always remembered him well. My condolences to you and the family. Regards, Dan Tooth. Saskatoon. - Posted by: Dan Tooth (Friend) on: Mar 15, 2019
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Met Cliff (Cliffy) when I applied to be his and Doug Harveys (Harv) company back in the late 90's. I spent 7 years working with Cliff and remained in contact on and off since I left Maxim. My thoughts and prayers go out to Val and the family, sorry I missed the services I was South at the time. - Posted by: Terry H. Neplyk (employee and friend) on: Feb 09, 2019
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My sympathy to Val and the Family. - Posted by: Brian Borne (Friend) on: Jan 21, 2019
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To family of Cliff, I first met Cliff during our high school years at Miles Mac. We would cross paths once in a while at U of M Campus but between careers/job transfers and raising families we did not cross paths again till many years later at a Maxim barbecue or Christmas event. It was like the thirty odd years of never seeing each other had never happened. He could remember things we did in high school like it was yesterday. I feel blessed that we were able to restart a high school friendship some thirty years later. My wife, Corin and I, are truly sorry about your loss as Cliff really was "one of the good guys" who made this world a better place. - Posted by: Al Raine (Friend from High School) on: Jan 09, 2019
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We met Cliff some 40 plus years ago at the U of M. There was something that just clicked and we have been fortunate to be good friends with Cliff and Val and their family. The times together in Edmonton, Orlando, Winnipeg and Edmonton will be cherished. Cliff loved his family, passionate about work, loved to help the needy, and throughout his life some great one liners like "retirement is all about the cost of the wine" The conversations and side bets between and Oilers and Jets were there right to the end. And yes one last martini, even if your grandson has to feed it to you with a straw. Our thoughts go out to the Kolson Family we lost a really great person. - Posted by: Doug and Sandy Fogg (Good friends) on: Jan 07, 2019
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It was truly an honour to meet and get to know Cliff in the short time I've been with Maxim. I had the privilege to play some golf and have some good discussions with him and enjoyed his company. My family extends our condolences to Val and the rest of Cliff's family on their loss of such a wonderful man, and believe he is now serving a new calling in his next life. - Posted by: Alex Ethier & Family (Maxim Truck & Trailer Colleague) on: Jan 07, 2019
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I will miss Cliff calling me "T" and I calling him "C". I remember our adventure to Walmart to purchase new microwaves for the lunchroom, he told me to pick the ones that I thought were the best for the lunchroom! Cliff may you rest in paradise, Val & family may you all find comfort in the memories you share of Cliff and your dad. He is the sweetest man and I will truly miss him - Posted by: Tara Jones (Collegue) on: Jan 07, 2019
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My heart sings when I recall the treasured times of all our adventures. A true gem. I am thinking of you all. Val, Andrea, Tracy, Dave, Danny, Chrystal and Carly. Cliff was loved by many. - Posted by: Dorothy Chapman (A childhood friend who grew up with cliff at the lake) on: Jan 07, 2019
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Dear Val and family, We are saddened at the news of Cliff's passing but also comforted that he is at peace and pray the same will come for you. Regrettably we will not be able to attend the Memorial, as we have plans to be away that day. We will be thinking of you and all his friends and family that day as they come together in love and support, as we bid him farewell, until we meet again. Sincerely, Reg & Monique Graboski - Posted by: Reg & Monique Graboski (Friends) on: Jan 06, 2019
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Val and Family, I truly enjoyed hearing Cliff laugh his way through the night at Tom Peaks wine dinners the last few years. His smile was indeed infectious and I will miss him. My memories are happy ones, and now Cliff can break bread and drink wine "upstairs". RIP Cliff. - Posted by: dale norman saunders (Friend) on: Jan 06, 2019
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Our sincere condolences and love to Val and family. Cliff was an easy man to love and respect and will surely be missed. Our world has lost one its kindest warriors. Sending our love and praying for you all during this most difficult time. - Posted by: Bryan and Pam Johnson (Friends ) on: Jan 06, 2019
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We’re sincerely going to miss Cliff. I only really started to get to know Cliff 7 years ago and that itself is a great regret. Although I knew who Cliff was prior to this time, it was while negotiating the purchase of my company we got to know one another. These types of negotiations can be tense and difficult but I’ve never met a more tactful, insightful, fair, and honest person than Cliff and after the transaction was completed, Cliff and I continued a friendship I’m truly proud and grateful for. Our condolences to Val, whom we also consider a great Friend, and family. - Posted by: Ken & JACKIE Tereck (Freinds) on: Jan 05, 2019
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Our Deepest Sympathies and Condolences to you Val and your Family in the loss of your Husband/Father & Grandfather. May Cliff Rest In Peace and may the comfort of your Family and Friends ease your pain. - Posted by: Rick & Nancy Layer (Friend) on: Jan 05, 2019
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Val and your kids, grandchildren You have our deepest sympathies on your loss. We will say a few prayers on your behalf. Cliff will be missed as he was a great man. Denis & Karen - Posted by: Denis Rodrigue (Co-worker and friend) on: Jan 05, 2019
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Val, we were so sorry to get the news of Cliff’s passing. You both had a long and hard struggle and now is the time to reflect on all the great things you both did in life. - Posted by: Bob and Cathy Stewart (RBC coworkers with Val) on: Jan 05, 2019
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Our sincere condolences Val and family. Such a fun-loving soul taken way to soon. - Posted by: John & Angèle Matyi (Friends ) on: Jan 05, 2019
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Dear Val, Andrea, Tracy, Glenn, Roberto & Grandkids, Words cannot express how saddened I am to hear of Cliff's passing. May you find comfort in knowing he is free of all pain and discomfort. I will forever miss his sense of humour and smile. I am so happy to have known him and called him my friend. God's grace and peace be with you all. Love Heather Schaub - Posted by: Heather Schaub (Friend) on: Jan 05, 2019
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I will miss working across the hall from Cliff and him calling me by my last name to come into his office and talk. I will miss the twinkle in his eye, the mischievous smile that he always had, his great sense of operations within the organization along with his compassion, empathy, and care for the employees. I am so blessed that I got to visit with him one last time just before Christmas to watch him smile, have his eyes roll, and light up as I talked about life, and work at the company. He was one of my most favourite people to work for in my career I will miss him deeply. - Posted by: Kathy Randall (Worked with him ) on: Jan 05, 2019