~ In Loving Memory ~
This page is dedicated to the memory of my brother, Claude, who was taken from this life all too soon by melanoma.
~ Claude Allen Clifton ~
July 16, 1955 - July 16, 1999
He was born July 16, 1955, the oldest of 3 children. He was the best big
brother anyone could possibly ask for. He never met a stranger and
everyone who knew him, liked him.
He had a strong will & determination. His dream had always
been to own his own truck, and he did. He was
an owner/operator for many years.
Unfortunately, he was a very proud and stubborn man
and ignored the early warning signs of melanoma. By the time it
was discovered, it was too late. He was given 6 months to live.
But due to his "bull-headed determination", he proved the doctors wrong
and lived for almost 1 1/2 yrs. His goal was to live to see his 44th
birthday...and he did. He died at 12:52 am on July 16, 1999.
Even though he's not with me in body, I feel his presence around me
all the time. I know he's still out there
looking out for "little sis."
This poem was written by my daughter, Bridget Clevenger.
~ Uncle Claude ~
By: Bridget Clevenger
July 16, 2001
You drove a truck,
Just like my Dad.
You looked and sang
Like Travis Tritt.
You were the greatest uncle
In the whole wide world.
You were the greatest person
I have ever known.
You were the greatest uncle
Anyone could ever have.
I looked up to you,
Because you were the best.
I could never understand
Just why you had to leave.
I guess I should be thankful,
For the time that I did have with you.
I should have said those three little words,
"I love you."
I hope you knew that I did.
Although I never said it.
I cried and weeped,
Because I never got the chance.
I feel a little better now,
Knowing you are in a much better place.
I hope one day,
When my time comes,
That I will have the chance
To say, "I love you Uncle Claude."
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