Carl D. Clift, 76, passed away on Friday, May 30, 2025, at his home in Belleville, IL. He was born September 20, 1948, in Denver, Colorado, to Elbert Borden and Theresa Germaine (née Parker) Clift.
He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Janet Deyarmin, their treasured pets of Belleville, Illinois, his mother-in-law, Louise Deyarmin, sister-in-law Deneen (Bill) Tugman and numerous nieces and nephews.
Carl honorably served in the United States Army, where he was deployed to Vietnam and served with distinction in the 169th Engineering Battalion, earning two Bronze Star Medals for his exemplary service.
Following his military service, Carl pursued a career in the diamond wholesale industry in Kansas City, MO, while attending the Kansas City School of Watchmaking and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). In 1980, he attained a Bachelor of Science in Accounting with a minor in Fine Arts from Missouri State University in Springfield, MO. He built a respected 30-year career in auditing, known for his dedication, sharp analytical skills, and professionalism.
An active and dedicated member of his community, Carl was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, The American Legion, and the National Rifle Association. He was also affiliated with the Shiloh Eagles Aerie #545. Carl’s hobbies included traveling with his wife, panning for gold in Alaska, playing bingo, and attending auctions, where he had a keen eye for collectibles and fine jewelry.
Carl was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, James Eugene Clift, and sister, Patricia (née Clift) Ortiz-Burton.
Friends and family will be received on Friday, June 6 from 12:00 PM to time of service at 2:00 PM at McCabe Funeral Home, Inc., 114 Maple Ave., Punxsutawney, PA 15767 with Rev. Rob Van Fossen officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Carmel Cemetery in Mahaffey, PA.
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