Clifford H. Wantje

Cliff Wantje was born October 4, 1925 near Pittsburg, PA and was the fourth of seven children. He was born to the union of the late John and Minnie Wantje. He lived in Pittsburgh, PA until the time he enlisted in the Army, serving his country in WWII. After returning from his tour of duty, Cliff moved to Detroit, MI. In 1948, he began his career with General Motors and worked at the Cadillac Plant in Detroit until he retired in 1986 as General Plant Forman. During this time he married Barbara Burke and had three children, Kevin, Karen and Margaret. Before retiring, Cliff married Lois Begley and they moved permanently to Port Charlotte, FL in 1986. He remained an avid golfer and also worked part-time at the Port Charlotte Cultural Center until he suffered a stroke in 1996. Anyone who knew Cliff knew he was a faithful steward of Southern Gospel Music and has traveled miles to many concerts and also attended many live video recordings of concerts. He often referred to Bill Gaither and Ernie Haase (and Signature Sound) as his "kids." Cliff's was a humble soul whose positive attitude helped him through countless health challenges over the years. He never met a stranger and could bring a smile to any face. He will undoubtedly be missed by all who knew him. Cliff passed away peacefully, Wednesday, May 28, 2014 at the Bay Front Hospital in Port Charlotte, FL, at the age of 88 years. Cliff is survived by his wife Lois, his son Kevin and daughters Karen and Margaret. Step-sons, Bob, Wayne and Mike and six grandchildren, Sam, Billy, Jimmy, Katie, Elizabeth and Joey. Step-grandchildren, Jack, Robby, Sydnee, Nathan, Abbie, Jordyn and Emilyu. He is also Pappa Cliff to Kimberly, Brandi, Kayla and Hannah. Also a host of other family and friends. Funeral services for Cliff Wantje will be conducted at 2:00 P.M., Wednesday, June 04, 2014 in the chapel of the Wolfe & Sons Funeral Home with Teddy Bailey and Larry Bailey officiating. Burial will follow the services at the Arnold and Hannah Begley Cemetery at Confluence, KY with full military honors observed by the Leslie County D. A. V. Chapter 133. The family will receive friends for visitation from 5:00 until 9:00 P.M., Tuesday, June 03, 2014 at the Wolfe & Sons Funeral Home.