Don Charron Cluff

Don Charron Cluff, aged 95, passed away at Ashford Assisted Living and Memory care in Draper, Utah on Sunday February 26, 2023. 

He was born December 21, 1927 to Darl and Merlin Cluff in Salt Lake City, Utah.  He married the love and light of his life, Lois Simons on November 10, 1950. They spent the next 65 years together until she passed away in October, 2015.  He was never the same and lived in continual mourning for his love Loody (his affectionate nickname for her).

Don was a foreman for the Gallagher Company in Salt Lake City where he was involved in manufacturing the engines of the Saturn V Atlas Rocket which was first sent to the Moon. He spent time employed with Merchants as security with his father & brother.  He was primarily self-employed as a wood worker creating beautiful carved moldings, frames and shelving.

Don was, at times, a difficult man and held tight to his routines and convictions.  He enjoyed westerns, ice cream and had a love for classic cars. He was the proud builder of a Restored 1931 Model A which he gave to his son, Dan. He was an amazing artist, a superb wood worker and was as thrifty as could be.  He was an inventor, of sorts, always thinking of creative ways to get a task done! He was very proud of his family and was quick to praise and brag about their accomplishments.  He worked very hard to provide the best Christmas for his family. He believed Christmas was for kids and spoiled them the most.

He was a Veteran of the U.S. Army and served with the 27th Infantry in Japan post WWII under General McArthur’s command. He was most proud of his sharpshooter medal. He was a cook in the army and carried that skill forward, baking many sweet treats for his loved ones.  His sugar cookies were the best.

Don is survived by his children Dan (Trish) Cluff and Ellen (Randy) Williford; grandchildren John (Angela) Cluff, Karen Cluff and Jacob (Lisa) Williford and great grandchildren Christian Cluff and Max Williford. He is preceded in death by his parents and four siblings, wife Lois and daughter Roseann.

We want to give a sincere and deep felt thanks to all the incredible staff at Ashford and his hospice worker Allison.  They were incredibly kind and compassionate with their care of Don over the last three years, bringing out the sweetest side of him.  All who knew him there spoke of what a joy he was. 

Don doesn’t say goodbye so instead we say, So long!

There will be a private service held by the family.