Gerald Frederick George Clift

I'm saddened to hear of Mr. Clift's passing (that's what we always called him). Mr Clift was a well liked, well respected teacher. A good teacher is one of the most important people in the development of a young persons character. Sometimes all it takes is a good teacher to make the difference in a person's life between success and failure. I graduated from H.B. Beal Secondary school in 1971, and by my definition I am successful, not because I'm rich, but because I'm happy. Part of that happiness is because I got through my troubled teens with the help of a few good role models, teachers like Mr. Clift. There is no way to know how many people have achieved success because they passed through one of Mr. Clift's classrooms, many to be sure, including myself. Please accept my sincere and heartfelt sympathy on your loss.

Gerry was one of the best department heads I've ever had in my 31 years as a teacher of English. Organized and thorough, he had a strong work ethic and was a good role model for a young teacher, as I was at the time. But it was his strong character, his solid sense of values that made him like a lighthouse, a moral compass that always guided us home. I'm forever grateful for that. He was very supportive. I remember coming back to school after a week-long absence because of foot surgery, and Gerry was standing in the window, watching for my car as I pulled into the parking lot. He was worried about me! He was like a dad, or a big brother that way. Certainly a great friend. He'll be missed.

Dear Sarah, The notice of your father's passing struck me in a bitter-sweet way this morning. Bitter: he was so young. Though he lived his life well, fully and generously, this seems too soon. My memories of him are truly fond, with laughs, great conversations and full respect for the way he worked coming back to me. Sweet: the notice prompted me to recall you and many fun times we had in class and around the school at Banting. That you were and, I'm sure, still are a bright light is one of the real tributes to your dad. Celebrate the life of a great guy. My sincere sympathy, Sarah, to you, your mother and entire family. Wynn Downing

Sheri: I was saddened to read of Gerry's passing . I worked with Gerry at Banting and at Oakridge and always enjoyed his sense of humour and knew that he was respected by students and staff alike. I wish you and the children comfort in the days ahead. Sincerely Walker Schofield

Hello Sheri, I was saddened to read of Gerry's passing. I met Gerry only a few times, but as part of the Boate clan I feel that I came to know him through many wonderful conversations with his father. Gerry was certainly a cherished son! Both he and Fred were clearly intelligent and respected individuals. My sincere condolences to you and your daughters at this sad time.

Dear Sheri and Family, Ross and I are sorry for your loss. We enjoyed spending time with you both. Will see you on Monday in celebration of Gerry's life. Sincerely, Val .

Sincere condolences to the family of Mr. Clift. Even after several decades, he will always be remembered as a well-liked, well-respected teacher of many students at Banting. He had a grand reputation as a casual guy, but always challenged us intellectually, and treated us with respect, something we may not have seen, nor deserved, as teenagers! Sincerely, Joyce Chan, Banting graduate '89

As Orchard Park parents and having had our 4 children attend Banting High School, we wish to convey our sincere condolences at the loss of your husband, father and grandfather. Linda and Tony Sellick

I was fortunate to know Gerry first as a family friend, then second, as my Grade 12 Creative Writing Teacher. His sense of humour was very dry, yet very witty. I recall one assignment he handed back to me and said something along the lines of, "Try Plumbing." We both burst out laughing. He was also a very good tennis player. He and I played several times, a few times even going 5 sets. Unfortunately, no one was around to witness those classic battles. But my favourite memory was the time he and Sherry took me across the border back into Canada. I'm sure Sherry will laugh as soon as she reads this. Enough said. Gerry will be missed by all. He was a great influence on me, and countless others. My Warmest Regards go to Sherry and his family. Eric

Dear Sheri and Sarah, we were so sad to hear of Gerry's parting. He was a warmhearted and witty dinner partner, and reading the tributes to him as mentor, sportsman, and memorable teacher by such a wide range of those he whose lives he touched is heartening. We are far away (Ireland, Miriam in France today) but we join in echoing them all. Gay and Abe

I am very upset to learn of Gerry Clift's passing. He has been a good neighbour to me for 39 years. His calm demeanor and great knowledge of literature and politics were a wonderful thing. I am grateful for the time spent in conversation with him in his home over four decades. Gerry was enormously respected in London, generous with his time, helping the elderly with their taxes, and much more. He will be missed.