William Clifton

On June 7^th, 2024, William D. Clifton passed away surrounded by family members in Minneapolis, Minnesota. William, known by his friends and family as Willy, was born August 28^th, 1961, to William George Clifton and Marjorie Leone Clifton. Willy grew up in Mahnomen and graduated from Mahnomen High School in 1979. He grew up loving to be outdoors enjoying nature. In March of 1983, Willy married Felecia, with whom he raised four children, Will, Josh, Devon, and Dakota. Willy was a hard worker, making his way up the ranks from Maintenance Technician to Director of Maintenance Services and Residences at the Grand Forks Housing Authority. He was an outdoorsy man, enjoying fishing, hunting, and woodworking in his free time. 

Willy was preceded in death by his father, William G. Clifton and sister, Roberta Scheff. 

He is survived by his wife and four children; Will (Cheyenne), Josh, Devon, and Dakota; his mother, Marge Clifton; a brother, Jeff (Carolyn) Clifton; and, sisters, Kathy Kalinoski and Kay Clifton, as well as numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews. 

Willy lives on through their hearts and memories as an amazing husband, a loving father and brother, a kind and just boss, and was generally well-loved by everyone he met. 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. 

The visitation for Willy will be held on Friday, June 14^th, 2024, starting at 5:00 PM at the First Baptist Church in Detroit Lakes. The celebration of his life will be held the following day, Saturday June 15^th, 2024, at 1:00 PM 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 (https://fishingforlife.org/). 

Willy may have left us too soon, but he will never be forgotten, and he will be dearly missed.