Obituary of Clifford William Teel
We are very saddened to announce the sudden passing of Cliff Teel on February 16, 2019, at Markham Stouffville Hospital. Cliff was the devoted husband of 40 years to Marguerite (nee Reid). Wonderful and much-loved stepfather of Anne (nee Brandon) and her husband Len Collins. Caring and dedicated grandfather of Maureen Bianchet (Bob), Caileigh Orlowski (Kyle), and Brandon Collins. Proud great-grandfather of George and Joseph Bianchet. Dear brother of Marie McIntosh (Stewart) (both deceased); Allan Teel (deceased) and his wife Pat; and Helen Perkins (Charles - deceased). Cliff will be missed by his many nieces and nephews.
Cliff was a crane operator employed by Miller Paving for most of his working life. He could never say enough good things about his employer or his co-workers. Exploits in Kapuskasing and Spruce Mills Pulp and Paper were the source of many legendary stories.
Cliff loved his family, friends, home, and community, and he was loved in return. It was impossible to travel anywhere with Cliff without running into a friend or relation. Cliff seemed to know everybody, and everybody knew Cliff. He was proud to be a member of many community groups but had a special dedication to both the Cannington Lions Club and Legion. He was greatly honoured when the Lions nominated him to receive the Canada 150 medal.
He was an avid hunter and fisherman in his younger years; recently Cliff’s interests became more sedentary, and he took great enjoyment from feeding squirrels and birds, particularly a family of Canada geese that returned annually to raise their young on his lawn by the river. Always an animal lover, through pasturing cattle on his ranch to a series of Doberman dogs, Cliff had downsized to a Westie named Hamish, who has been a loyal companion for 17 years. Cliff was well known for having a great admiration for all things of natural beauty, including, but not limited to, members of the female persuasion. If someone deserved a compliment, Cliff felt duty-bound to provide one.
Being a lifelong hockey fan, Cliff enjoyed watching local teams at the Cannington arena and also professional hockey on television, particularly the Toronto Maple Leafs. Cliff loved music and was an excellent dancer. It was always a pleasure to watch when he and Marg were on the dance floor. He was never happier than when someone would stop in for a visit and have a drink. His friends will remember many excellent pool parties at their home. One of the most vivid, fondest, and enduring memories we have is Cliff, in his red bathing suit, dancing by the pool to his favourite song by the Merrymen – “The Big Bamboo.”
In accordance with Cliff’s wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service. If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Cannington Lions Club or Cannington Legion. Any memories or photos shared online at www.thornefuneralhome.ca would be welcome.
The family of the late Cliff and Marg Teel welcome you to drop in to an
Open House to celebrate their lives on
Saturday, June 1, 2019
Cannington Legion
1 to 4 p.m.
Please join us to share some memories and light refreshments.
