Clifford Manchester

Clifford Earl Manchester of Ithaca, NY returned to his heavenly home on Monday, January 22, 2018 at the age of 93. Cliff returned just as he lived, peacefully and quietly, surrounded by his loving family.
Cliff is survived by his wife Erna (Hiersche); three children: Laurie (Al Pickerd) of Cortland, NY, Carol of Candor, NY and Scott (Yvonne) of Nedrow, NY; seven grandchildren: Jeffrey, Mallory, Cassie, Shelby, Holly, Shari, and John; and four great-grandchildren: Nathan, Olivia, James and Zayne.

Cliff was born on May 26, 1924 in Fryeburg ME to John and Nellie (Parker) Manchester. From 1943 to 1946, he served in the US. Army Air Corps as a 2nd Lieutenant; stationed in Hawaii as a Bombardier for the 27th Bomb Squadron. He graduated from University of Maine (Orono) in 1950 with a BS. degree in Agronomy. He married Erna that same year, and began a career in plant breeding as a research specialist, first with Eastern States Farms Exchange in West Springfield, MA and then, in 1966, with Cornell University in Ithaca.

As a country boy, Cliff grew to love the outdoors - fishing, hunting, bird watching, working in his flower and vegetable gardens, enjoying the weather and travelling (all 50-states). Cliff liked reading and learning about every facet of nature and had a passion for being part of it. He was also a faith-filled and active member of the Caroline Valley Community Church for over 50 years.

A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, January 27 at 4 pm at the Caroline Valley Community Church, with a light food reception to follow downstairs. Pastor Dan Phillips will officiate. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Cliff's life. In remembrance, any donations in Cliff's memory may be sent to the Caroline Valley Community Church. Condolences may be sent to the family, who would like to thank the many who have known and been an encouragement to Cliff throughout his rich life. bangsfuneralhome.com

Saturday, January 27, 2018 4:00 PM

Caroline Valley Community Church 546 Valley Rd. Brooktondale, NY 14817