Obituary of Clifford Nathaniel Schnell

Clifford Nathaniel Schnell of Coronach, SK, passed away on Thursday, January 5, 2012, at the age of 90 years. Clifford was born on January 26, 1921 in Constance, SK. He was the son of Ludwig and Florence Schnell and brother to Roy, Florence, Vera, Waneeta and Myrtle. Clifford was raised on the family farm and attended Goose Creek School. Clifford worked for various farmers until June 25, 1941, when he enlisted in the Canadian Army. Clifford served his country in Dieppe, Sicily, Italy, France, Germany and Holland. For his service Clifford was awarded the 1939-1945 Star, Italy Star, France and Germany Star, Defence Medal and Canadian Volunteer Medal. Clifford was discharged January 9, 1946. On May 3, 2003 Clifford was awarded a commemorative medal from the ambassador of the Netherlands for his part in the liberation of Holland during World War II. After the war Clifford went to Ontario to work on a tobacco farm and Texas to custom combine. After returning to Coronach Clifford went to a rodeo at the Rhody Ranch where he met Lorraine Beston. Clifford and Lorraine were married on June 15, 1948 and they were blessed with two children, Clarence and Debbie. Clifford worked for Joe Brandize, Jack Magousky, and Lawrence Peterman before taking a job at Curran’s Esso in 1956. Clifford was employed at the Esso until his retirement in 1988, and was very proud of his safe driving record of 15 years. Clifford was a good provider for his family. He was a wonderful husband, father, father-in-law, grandpa and great grandpa. Clifford was a loyal, trustworthy employee and a humble man who never wanted anyone to make a fuss over him. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. Clifford is survived by his loving family, wife of 63 years Lorraine (nee Beston); son Clarence (Mary); grandchildren Tereena (Troy), Cory (Carrie), Trevor (Brandy), Lisa, Ron (Sandra); 14 great grandchildren; sisters Florence, Waneeta and Myrtle. Predeceased by his parents Ludwig and Florence (nee Flyn) Schnell; daughter Debbie Schnell; brother Roy Schnell; sister Vera Johnson; and numerous brother and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews. Funeral Service was held on Monday, January 9, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., at Piche-Hawkins-Grondin Funeral Chapels, Assiniboia, SK, with Wendy Gibson officiant. The eulogy was given by Tereena Bartlett and Christopher Bartlett. Special memories of Clifford were shared by Jack Van Vaal. Urn bearers were Cory Schnell and Trevor Schnell. Interment took place at the Coronach Municipal Cemetery. Memorial tributes in memory of Clifford to the Coronach Health Centre, Box 150, Coronach, SK S0H 0Z0, were greatly appreciated. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Piche-Hawkins-Grondin Funeral Chapels, Assiniboia & Gravelbourg.