ROBERTS, Clifford Alexander

Chéticamp, NS

May 11, 1932 - July 12, 2024

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Clifford Alexander Roberts at the age of 92, at the Foyer Père Fiset in Chéticamp, Nova Scotia, on July 12, 2024.

Clifford is survived by his loving wife Betty (MacLeod), his two children Darrell (Tamara) and Kathy (Wilf), and his four grandchildren Craig, Bhreagh, Meagan and Niccola. Clifford is also survived by his brother Willie, his twin brother Clarence and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Born in Baddeck on May 11, 1932, Clifford was predeceased by his parents Thomas and Annie (MacInnis) Roberts, brothers Morris and Daniel, sisters Marion Warnholtz, Betty Skinner, sister-in-law Ann Roberts, brother-in-law Reuben Skinner, niece Leslie Roberts and grandson Andrew Goodine.

Clifford was born and lived on the Shore Road in Baddeck, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. He worked as a lineman with the Nova Scotia Power Corporation for almost 40 years. Clifford loved every nook and cranny of Cape Breton. And what a storyteller he was! Upon his return home from work, he would often spin a tale about the place he had been or characters he had met that day.

In his early years, Clifford was an avid Citizen Band Radio operator. This passion led to lifelong friendships and many days of family fun, travelling to attend CB radio jamborees. Clifford loved the outdoors. Most days, he would go for a long walk in the hills behind the house. He also enjoyed camping. Starting with basic tents and progressing to well-appointed trailers, the family spent many summers exploring Canada and the US. He was an accomplished photographer who captured striking images of his family and of the landscapes and wildlife of Nova Scotia. These are now cherished memories.

Clifford had a passion for knitting that began at an early age. During the Second World War, his mother taught him and Clarence to knit washcloths; these were sent overseas for the soldiers. His skills improved over the years. He knit countless socks, mittens and stocking hats. Then beautiful sweaters and blankets. And eventually, elaborate projects including a striking sweater with 46 miniature cats! Clifford creatively designed his own patterns, including a coat sweater with a helicopter for a special friend who was a pilot. Because there were never enough hours in the day, Clifford had a special set of needles with lighted tips that allowed him to knit well into the night.

Clifford always had a project in the works ... often electrical in nature. And he was always happy to help someone in need. When he put something together, he was adamant that it should last for a lifetime.

Family, friends and newcomers were always warmly welcomed to the Roberts residence on the Shore Road; advance notice was not required. Clifford filled those visits with engaging stories, historical references, heartfelt laughter and impossible quizzes requesting identification of antique items hanging on the back porch walls. Goodbyes tended to be long and drawn-out but with a warm send off.

Clifford was a conservationist. He limited use of the car and gasoline, turned the lights out early at night, and accumulated a basement full of, as well as backyard sheds brimming with, parts to use for potential future repairs. Clifford also loved animals ... there was always a cat or two perched on his lap. For many years, his loving and faithful little white Abby was always by his side. This love of pets was passed on to his children and grandchildren over the decades.

Clifford will be missed by all who loved and knew him.

The family wishes to express their appreciation and gratitude to Dr. A. Maillet, Dr. M. Chaisson, Dr. R. Genge, and the wonderful staff at Foyer Père Fiset.

In accordance with Clifford's wishes, a cremation has taken place, and the Celebration of Life will be held at Greenwood United Church on Tuesday, July 16 at 2 pm, with a reception to follow at the Inverary Inn. Interment in Greenwood United Church Cemetery, Baddeck.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Baddeck Improvement Association - Kidston Restoration Project, the Baddeck & Area Cat Rescue, or another charity of your choice.