Clifford Albert Stump

Clifford Albert Stump, loving father, cherished grandfather, and devoted friend, went to be with his Lord on June 23, 2023, at the age of 99. Born in Van Meter, Iowa, on June 13, 1924, to Robert and Leona Stump. Cliff was part of a tight-knit family that included his older siblings Robert, Anna, Edith, and Russell, as well as younger siblings Mary, Donald, Leona and baby Susie, who passed at birth. Fondly recalling their childhood, Mary shared anecdotes of friendly sibling rivalry, including their playful battles over licking the frosting pans. In his younger days, Cliff had a passion for sports and excelled in football, basketball, and track. He even achieved the remarkable feat of winning first place in the 100-meter event at the Drake Relays.

Cliff proudly served in the United States Army as an 82nd Airborne Gliderman in the 80th Battalion, Company E. He showed immense bravery during significant World War II battles, including the D-Day invasion, the Battle of the Bulge, and Operation Market Garden. His heroic efforts earned him prestigious honors, such as the Holland Lanyard for his role in saving the Nijmegen Bridge and the Belgium Forgiere for his contributions to the Battle of the Bulge, which took place in the coldest winter of '44. Cliff ended his time in the army participating in the Victory Parade in New York City and was selected out of his entire company to dine with Mayor O’Dwyer at the famous Waldorf Astoria hotel.

Following his military service, Cliff obtained an accounting degree; however, his greatest accomplishment was that of becoming a father. He experienced the heartbreaking loss of his firstborn, baby Cliff, who passed away at birth. Blessed with two more sons, Michael and James, the two boys brought adventure to his life. Some of Mike’s most cherished memories of his father and brother were the Boy Scouts’ Yapa River trips. “He was always there and always helpful," Mike warmly recounted of his constant support. Jim fondly recalls an unforgettable trip to Disneyland and Magic Mountain. Cliff's love for his family extended to his grandchildren, Jenny, Cliff Jr., Chris, Justin, Gregory, and Melanie. Just this past April, Jenny visited her beloved grandpa and took him out for the best burgers in Dallas. She affectionately reminisced of their days playing solitaire and watching WWE, which Cliff considered his favorite "soap opera." However, what she’ll miss most is “simply sitting with grandpa in his living room, talking with him.”

Cliff dedicated over 30 years to his bookkeeping career, specifically in his dream job of “cost accounting” working at Associated Traders before retiring. Cliff's first retirement didn't last long, as he couldn’t sit still and began serving for the Volunteers of America, delivering meals to those in need. Cliff eventually moved in with Mike and Qin, his daughter-in-law, and together they ran a Colorado farm, growing vegetables and tending to their goats, pigs, and flock of 1000 chickens. Not to be confined in the United States, the three also traveled to China, where they visited Qin's family and traveled to Hong Kong and Costa Rica as well.

The three relocated to Texas in 2013 and it was here that Cliff became familiar with the Dallas VA and formed lifelong friendships with best friend, Lt Colonel Jerry Jochum, his two guardian angels, Nurse Practitioner Lara Easterwood and teacher Renee Davis and spiritual mentor, Julio Cruz. While it is impossible to name each and every friend Cliff made, the sheer number of these friendships is a testament to the genuine connections he cultivated and the positive impact he had on those around him.

During his youthful 90’s, Cliff's adventurous spirit continued, thanks to the generosity of the 82nd Airborne Division Assoc., led by dear friend Bill Bauer, and the Best Defense Foundation, headed up by Donnie Edwards. Both organizations took part in arranging trips for World War II veterans to Normandy, Belgium, and Honolulu. The visit to Hawaii led to a poignant reuniting with older brother, Donald, killed during the Korean War and memorialized at the Punch Bowl. One of Cliff’s greatest sorrows being that Donald’s remains were never recovered; this reunion served as a time of healing.

In Normandy and Belgium, thousands turned out to cheer on the American heroes. The liberators of their country. Cliff treasured the time abroad; reminiscing was sometimes difficult, but the cheers of the citizens brought incredible warmth to his heart.

Never one to slow down, Cliff actively participated in various veteran groups, including Roll Call Veterans group and the North Texas Chapter of the 82nd Airborne Assoc., where he was an honorary member. He even experienced the thrill of flying with the Liberty Jump Team over the skies of Texas.

Cliff's mind remained sharp as ever, and his wit and wisdom brightened the lives of those around him. Oftentimes, he could be found reading his favorite Louis L'amour book while sipping some hot peppermint tea. His music tastes varied from his enjoyment of opera to the melodic voice of lovely Ann Murray.

Clifford Albert Stump will forever be remembered as a beloved father, grandfather, and friend. His infectious personality and genuine love for life left an indelible mark on the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to know him. “He was the kind of person that knowing him made you a better person.”

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, July 12, from 6 pm to 9 pm at JE Foust & Sons, located at 523 S Main St, Grapevine, TX 76051. A service will follow on Thursday, July 13, from 10 am to 12 pm at the same location. A graveside ceremony will take place at 1:00 pm at DFW National Cemetery, located at 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75211. A reception will follow the graveside ceremony, with details to be announced soon.

In honor of Cliff's memory, the family kindly requests that donations be made in his name to the Best Defense Foundation. Checks can be mailed to 249 HWY 101 Suite 312, Solana Beach, CA 92075.