Leon J Clifford

Leon Jay Clifford, age 78, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, in Lakewood, Colorado. Predeceased by his parents, James and Bernice Clifford. He is survived by his loving and compassionate companion of 26 years, Jacque Dennis; his sister, Marilyn Povio (Clifford); nephews, R.J. and Kevin Povio; and many Clifford and Wagner cousins.

Leon was quiet, reserved, unassuming. His soulmate, Jacque, along with her sons, Eric, Brent, and Chris were his family in Denver where he made it his home for more than 25 years. Special thanks to his friend, Gary, for his most recent support and friendship.

Leon graduated from East Rochester High School in 1965 and was selected to All Monroe County basketball and track team where he competed in the high jump.

He served bravely in the US Army in Viet Nam. He was awarded The Bronze Star Medal for loyalty, diligence, and judgement during a hostile mission.

He graduated from Syracuse University, College of Environmental Science and Forestry. He was employed by the National Park Service, Denver Service Center, Division of Design and Construction in Lakewood, Colorado while living in West Virginia and Georgia before settling in Denver. He retired in 2007 with 33 years of service.

He was an avid sportsman, loving to fish and hunt with his buddies, Gary, Russ, Sam, Joel, Terry, Ray, Fielder and others. They traveled to Alaska, Canada, New Mexico, and the mountains of Colorado for hunting and fishing trips.

He will be buried at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Colorado with military honors on Friday, May 1st at 11am. For burial information, please contact Jacque Dennis at [email protected].

A celebration of Leon’s life will be held in East Rochester, NY in June. For details, please contact his sister Marilyn Povio at [email protected].