On June 7th, 2024, William Clifton passed away surrounded by family members in Minneapolis, Minnesota. William, known by his friends and family as Willy, was born August 28th, 1961, to William George Clifton and Marjorie “Marge” (Glover) Clifton. Willy grew up in Mahnomen and graduated from Mahnomen High School in 1979. He grew up loving to be outdoors and enjoying nature. In March of 1983, Willy married Felecia (Niemitalo), whom he raised four children, William, Josh, Devon, and Dakota, with. Willy was a hard worker, climbing his way up the ranks from Maintenance Technician to Director of Maintenance Services at the Grand Forks Housing Authority. He was an outdoorsy man, enjoying wood working, fishing, and hunting in his free time. He lives on in hearts and memories as an amazing husband, a loving father, a kind and just boss, and being generally well loved. Though he may no longer be here with us, he is remembered by those whose lives he touched, and celebrated throughout the fond memories each person holds of him. He made everyone’s lives a little brighter just by being a part of them and he will be missed dearly by all who hold his memory with them.
Willy was preceded in death by his father, William G. Clifton and sister, Roberta Scheff. He is survived by his wife, Felecia; children, William (Cheyenne), Josh, Devon, and Dakota; mom, Marge Clifton; brother, Jeff (Carolyn) Clifton; sisters Kathy Kalinoski and Kay Clifton, and many grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
The memorial service for Willy will be held on Friday, June 14th, 2024, starting at 5pm, with prayer service beginning at 6 pm at the First Baptist Church in Detroit Lakes. The celebration of his life will be held the following day, Saturday June 15th, 2024, at 1 pm located at the First Baptist Church in Detroit Lakes. The family of Willy asks that in lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor him would instead donate in his name to Fishing for Life. Willy may have left us too soon, but he will never be forgotten, and he will be dearly missed.