Obituary: Vernon W. Clifcorn - Class of 1937

MADISON - Vernon W. Clifcorn, age 89, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 29, 2008, with his family at his side. He was born on July 30, 1918, in Madison, the son of Earl and Clara (Kneebone) Clifcorn. Vernon was united in marriage to Gudron "Goody" Opheim on June 29, 1939, in Madison, and they enjoyed 63 years of marriage until her death on Nov. 9, 2002. Mr. Clifcorn was a lifelong resident of Madison. He graduated with high honors from Madison Central High School. He owned and operated Clifcorn Decorating for 30 years, then was employed with the Madison School District for 17 years as well as being a beekeeper for 10 years. Vernon was an avid sportsman and gardener. He loved to fish, hunt and go camping. He loved taking the family on various vacations or just getting together for family gatherings. Mr. Clifcorn is survived by his son, James "Sonny" (Sue) Clifcorn and daughter, Carolyn Clifcorn, both of Madison; his grandchildren, Stuart (Joan) Clifcorn of Madison, Denise (John) Higgins of Deerfield, Becky Seibt of Columbus, Joel Clifcorn of McFarland, Brett (Deanna) Clifcorn of McFarland, Troy (Staci) Clifcorn of McFarland, Melissa (Sean) Collins of Racine, and Gregg Cline of Madison; 14 great-grandchildren; his sister, June Olrick of Rio; and nieces, nephews and other relatives also survive. Besides his loving wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; sons, Lynn and Ralph; and brothers, Ralph and Earl. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 3, 2008, at 11 a.m. at the CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3325 E. Washington Ave., Madison with Chaplain Annette Cleary leading worship. Burial will be held in Sunset Memory Gardens, Madison. Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday, April 2, 2008, from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m., and on Thursday, from 10 a.m. until the time of service. The family would like to thank HospiceCare for their wonderful care which helped Dad stay at home. There was nothing he wouldn't do for his family, always putting them first before himself. He will be dearly missed. Cress Funeral and Cremation Service 3325 E. Washington Ave. (608) 249-6666

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on April 2, 2008

Note: Vernon Clifcorn's class year is based on information in the 1937 Orange and Black yearbook, where his photograph appears with the February graduates.