Rexell "Dale" Clifton

Rexell “Dale” Clifton was born in Collbran Colorado on June 15, 1954 to Rexell Franklin Clifton and Mary Luella Markley. He grew up in this ranching community with his two older brothers, Larry Clifton and Leland Clifton. He attended Plateau Valley High School where he played football, basketball, and ran track. He enjoyed camping and fishing with his friends as a teenager.

He met the love of his life, Debbie Knowles on a blind date. They were married in 1979 and were the proud parents of three children, Aaron & (Kim Clifton) of Colby, WI, Tamara & (Chris Wheatley) of Westminster, CO and Melissa & (Andrew Barney) of Grand Junction, CO. They were happily married for over 42 years.

Dale started out working for the Collbran Co-op as a manager. He later moved to Grand Junction and worked in the oil and gas industry as a pumper, plant manager, and a meter tech supervisor. His career spanned 43 years and many miles through the Colorado and Utah deserts.

Dale retired in 2018 and moved to his property in Harrison Gulch. There he worked to fulfill a long-time dream of having a house, a dog, and planning his own

schedule. He was incredibly mechanically inclined and was able to fix anything. His other interests included gardening, woodworking, and his all-time favorite, hunting.

Dale passed away at the age of 67. He has 14 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren who will miss their “Papa.” His service will be Sat. June 4th at 10 am at Martin Mortuary. A graveside internment ceremony will take place at Clover Cemetery in Collbran at 2 pm. Memorial contributions can be made to Colorado Wildlife Federation.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MartinMortuary.com for the Clifton family.