Clifford "Cliff" Lough
Posted Jun 2, 2026 | 2:24 PM by Grace Memorial Affordable Burial and Cremation
Clifford “Cliff” E. Lough
September 30th, 1936 – May 26th, 2026
It is with deep sorrow that the family of Clifford E. Lough announce his passing on May 26th, 2026, at the age of 89 years.
Clifford is predeceased by his parents, Edwin and Lolette Lough; sisters, Anne Marie and Irene (Doug); son, Ross; uncle, Wilfred; nieces, Jan and Karen; great granddaughter, Hadley Rayne Dorohoy.
His memory lives on through this beloved and devoted wife, Ruth; sons, Darrel, Barry (Heather), Patrick (Dulaine); his (Ruthie’s) daughters, Lori (Robert), Susan, Sandra (eric); grandchildren, Marie (Josh), Felecia (Robbie), Stuart, Christopher, Desiree, Nakita, Rachael (Austin), Alex (Mabel), Emily, Ian, Tylan (Christine), Jonathan (Elicia), Benjamin (Martha), Dayna (Curtis); great grandchildren, Hope, Bently, Ivy, Shyanne, Taiya, Cole Axle, Raelee, Sophie and Josie; as well as his many other extended family members.
Clifford Edwin Lough was born on September 30th, 1936, at St. Michael’s General Hospital in Lethbridge, Alberta, to parents, Edwin and Lolette (Valentine nee Kunzle) Lough. The family lived on a farm near Coledale, where Cliff grew up with his two sisters, Anne Marie and Irene.
Cliff attended the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (S.A.I.T) in Calgary, where he studied Chemical Technology from 1959 to 1961. This led to his career as an Analytical Chemistry Technologist with the Defence Research Establishment Suffield (DRES) from 1961 to 1994. He was well respected in his workplace.
In 1961, Cliff married Marilyn. They lived in Ralston, where their first two sons, Darrell and Ross were born. In 1966, the family relocated to Medicine Hat, where they had two more boys, Barry and Patrick. Cliff found himself very busy with four boys and their activities of church, music, band, skating/other sports and Cub/Scouts, where Cliff volunteered as a leader. Family camping trips recall fond memories.
As a family man, Cliff taught by example; love was expressed through loyalty, presence, reliability and care. He lived by his actions and was more likely to be found doing something useful rather than talking about it. He was a problem solver; he liked to figure out how things worked which he skillfully applied to DIY projects around the house. He could also be found assembling models, doing puzzles and gardening. To everyone’s benefit, he enjoyed both cooking and baking. His homemade bread, carrot cake, and caramel squares are legendary family favourites!
Later in life, Cliff met Ruthie. During their time together they discovered many common interests and shared similar values as well as a deep affection for each other. They were engaged in November 1994 and married in September 1995. Together, they enjoyed dancing, golfing, card games and were avid travellers visiting six continents. They attended theatre productions and concerts and made every effort to attend their grandchildren’s events whenever possible.
Cliff was a welcome addition to Ruthie’s family. Her daughters, Lori, Susan and Sandra are grateful for the patience and respect he showed their mom. He always made the girls and their families feel welcome. His grandchildren have fond memorial of sleeping over at Gramma and Grampa’s house during vacations and the excitement of the chocolate Easter egg hunts in the backyard. Ruthie’s family is so thankful that he was such an important part of their lives.
In early 2020, Cliff realized he was having trouble doing his Sudoku puzzles and was concerned. Life began to change as he struggles with Alzheimer’s. Despite challenges with his memory, he shared stories of old friends and family, especially his uncle Wilfred. Sometimes it was difficult to know whether every detail was accurate, but it was still heartwarming to hear his stories. Fortunately, Cliff never lost his sense of humor, no matter what he faced.
Ruth remained vigilant of his care throughout. Until Cliff’s passing, the two were inseparable. For 35 years, they shared a life of endearing love, adventurous travels, socializing with friends and celebration with family. Hand in hand with admirable devotion to each other, they appreciated every moment of the precious time they had together.
May thanks to the staff at Meadow Ridge Senior’s Village, Age Care Riverview and the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital for their care during Cliff’s journey through Alzheimer’s.
Special thank you to Cathy Hilsendeger for going the extra mile. Thank you to Grace Memorial for their kind help and understanding during this time.
Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, June 12th, 2026, at 1:00pm at Chinook Village Terrace Room. For full life story and to leave condolences, please visit www.gracememorial.com. Arrangements are made by GRACE MEMORIAL AFFORDABLE BURIAL & CREMATION 1924 10th Ave NW, Medicine Hat, Alberta T1C 1T5 403-905-0440 info@gracememorial.com
- Date : 2026-05-26
- Location : Medicine Hat, Alberta