David grew up in Roslindale, MA and attended Catholic Memorial High School where he excelled academically and in Track and Field. He attended UMass Boston and thereafter joined the U.S. Air Force. David was a true patriot who loved and served his country for 21 years in both active and reserve capacities. For many years, he was an Aerospace Ground Equipment Technician with the rank of Master Sergeant for the 102nd squadron out of Otis Air Base, supporting the F-106 jet interceptor fighter protecting the east coast of the United States. Dave resided in Marstons Mills with his family for many years. Following his retirement from USAF in 2004, Dave and his family moved down to North Port, Florida where he worked in refrigeration at the Walmart Distribution Center.
David had a strong love for animals. He enjoyed working in his yard and working on small projects around the house. He was a true jack of all trades! Most importantly, David was a hard worker who was devoted to his family. His children meant the world to him, and he always put them first. He was actively involved in all their lives and taught them so many valuable life lessons.
He was the husband of Donna M. Clifford and the beloved father of Jennifer L. Pedersen and her husband Eric of Stoneham, MA, David A. Clifford and his wife Heidy of Haines City, FL, and Jacqueline A. Clifford (and her partner Ridge Hawkins) of North Port, FL. David was the brother of the late Linda Boyle of Milton, MA, Donna Lordan of Cranford, NJ, Beth Hickox of Weymouth, MA, Karen Gordon of Westboro, MA, Paul Clifford of Weymouth, MA, Susan Clifford of Quincy, MA, and Stephen Clifford of FL. David is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and good friends.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of the Angels Church, Lakewood Ranch, FL on Thursday, July 29 at 10:30 AM. Visiting hours at the Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home at Palms Memorial Park, Sarasota, FL on Wednesday, July 28th from 6-9PM. A military service will occur Thursday, July 29 at 1:00 PM at Sarasota National Cemetery, Sarasota, FL 34241.
In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of David may be made to the American Lung Association (www.lung.org) or to the Mark Bavis Leadership Foundation (www.markbavisleadershipfoundation.org).
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