Clifford Ronald "Cliff" Rolls

Cliff was born to Arthur James and Ada Margaret (nee Dawson) Rolls on June 20, 1934.

Cliff and his three siblings were raised on a tobacco farm in Komoka, Ontario, Canada, and he attended school in Komoka. His first job away from the farm was with the CN Railway, where he developed telegraphy skills and became adept at railway operations. Cliff was highly skilled in cross-border operations which included management of tariffs, rates, document filings, and regulatory compliance. Cliff held positions with the railway, in the dry freight industry, and in automotive distribution. When Ford Motor Co. established a plant in St. Thomas, Ontario, Cliff was part of the original management team and spent nearly twenty years contributing to the plant’s success. Cliff then joined Auto Haulaway as Vice President, and moved to Farmington, MI with this company in 1985 where he completed his career. Cliff’s strong work ethic and sharp intellect were foundational to the achievements he enjoyed in every position he held. Cliff found joy in work, and great joy in working smart.

Cliff also found great joy in family. In June of 1952, Cliff married Janice Elena Butler in Strathroy, Ontario, and they were married for twenty-eight years. Daughter Rebecca Lee and son Mark Ronald were born to this union, and the family resided in Strathroy for many years. Cliff and Mark shared a father-son bond that enriched both of their lives in ways that will transcend time.

In 1983, Cliff married Laura Annau Kipping in London, Ontario, where they resided until moving to the US in 1985. Cliff embraced a paternal role for step-daughters Tammy and Cheryl, leaving them with the valuable legacy of his influence in their lives.

Cliff retired at the age of 57 and moved to a community near Pinehurst. He and Laura enjoyed living on a golf course for 23 years. Cliff played golf frequently, and along with his wife, they entertained friends and neighbors, performed in the local theater, and traveled frequently to visit family. In 2014, Cliff and Laura relocated to the coastal town of Shallotte, NC. Beach life agreed with Cliff; he enjoyed every moment of his time there, made many dear friends, and filled his days with a variety of interests and activities. Cliff, his son Mark, and friend Mike embarked on memorable trips to Los Angeles, CA, Chicago, IL, Lakeland, FL, and Toronto, Ontario to see their favorite sports teams, see the country, and to enjoy time together. Cliff was close to his grandchildren and enjoyed watching them grow up; he shared a unique loving relationship with each of them.

Cliff’s clear blue eyes communicated his genuine curiosity about others, and when conversing with him one could see the intensity of his interest as he engaged with openness and honesty. Cliff happily lent his wisdom and perspective to others when asked, and he liked to help people solve problems. Cliff will always be remembered for his quick wit, the fact he never met a stranger, and his ability to strike up a conversation about anything with anyone. He was a great listener and was genuinely interested in other people's stories.

Cliff had a passion for his wife, children, grandchildren, golfing, travelling, playing cards (and usually winning), going to the beach, dancing, dining with friends, and living life to the fullest. Though he will be greatly missed, we who loved him are grateful for the precious times spent with Cliff, the cherished memories, and the enduring love that remains in our spirits.

Cliff is survived by his wife Laura Rolls; son, Mark Rolls and wife Brenda; step-daughters Tammy Falldien and husband Mark, and Cheryl Nicholl and husband Dennis; and six grandchildren, Edyn Rolls, Evan Rolls, Tyler Falldien, Brittney Falldien, Cassandra Nicholl, Kyle Nicholl.

Cliff is preceded in death by his parents Arthur and Ada, daughter Rebecca Lee Aarts; brothers Ross Rolls and Dennis Rolls; and sister Marjorie MacDonald.

A "Celebration of Cliff's Life" will be held on January 13, 2024, at 1:00 pm at the Rourk Woods Clubhouse on 4700 Sugarberry, Shallotte, NC for any friends and family who would like to attend.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Make A Wish Foundation.

Online condolences may be made at www.shallottefunerals.com.

White Funeral and Cremation Service, Shallotte, North Carolina.