Clifford Wayne Eddleman

He was the only son born to George and Jewel (Simmons) Eddleman. He grew up with humble means, but went on to provide for his parents during his teenage years and into adulthood.

He was married to his high school sweetheart, Cherita Eddleman, with whom he shared 67 years of devoted marriage. Together, they built a strong and loving family.

Clifford is survived by his wife and three sons: Matthew (Isabel), Mark, and Russell (Kristen); eight grandchildren: Ashlee (Zack) Bauman, Clayton (Caroline) Eddleman, Taylor (Robert) DeBoucher, Morgan (Kyle) Covarrubias, Matthew Eddleman, Hannah (Chase) Morley, Esmeralda Eddleman, and Michael Eddleman; and ten great-grandchildren: Elli, Cali, Zoe, and Millie Bauman; Dakota, Forrest, and Saturn Covarrubias; Summer and Jane Eddleman; and Jonah Morley. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Jewel Eddleman, and his three sisters Jeannie, Mary Beth, and Marion.

Cliff served six years in the Air National Guard and later spent two years with the Arizona Highway Patrol. He went on to build a 40-year career as a salesman in the electrical industry, where he was known for his strong work ethic and the relationships he built along the way. One of the first to define the utility business he supplied much of the electrical infrastructure to build the Palo Verde Nuclear plant. Over the years, Cliff and Cheri made their home throughout Phoenix, moving 17 times including their favorite place, a home on a pecan grove in Camp Verde.

Retirement didn’t slow him down. Cliff returned to the Arizona Highway Patrol for nearly 10 years as a volunteer and was honored as Volunteer of the Year for his time and dedication. When he could no longer change tires on the side of the road for stranded motorists, he transitioned to his final volunteer position at his church which he continued to do weekly right up until his death.

Cliff had a passion for fishing, flying, guns, and watches, and he took pride in passing those interests on to his three sons and many of his grandchildren. He loved spending time in Arizona’s White Mountains and made many trips to Disneyland and Newport Beach with his family over the years.

He placed a strong value on family and took a genuine interest in whatever Cheri or his boys were involved in; from raising dogs, to riding horses and restoring cars. Cliff was a bit of a perfectionist, always particular about his clothes and consistently well dressed. He was friendly and could strike up a conversation with anyone, and he was a man of integrity known for being kind, generous, and willing to help others.

He often reminded his boys that “your word is your bond,” a principle he lived by and passed on.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Central Christian Church, 8600 W. Glendale Ave. Family and friends are invited to join in celebrating the life and legacy of Cliff.

Cliff’s faith in Jesus was an important part of his life, and we take comfort in knowing he is at peace in the presence of the Lord.