Clifford Turner Garrett

We sadly announce that Cliff Garrett passed away after a long and fulfilling life, just two weeks shy of his 90th birthday. Cliff is survived and will be missed by his partner, Margaret Gormely, his children in Alberta and Ontario, Dean (Karen), Wayne (Jackie), MaryLou (Gordon), Heather and Mark (Katie), his 3 grandchildren, Michael, Ross and Sophie, his 2 nephews, David and Bruce, by Margaret’s children, Josh (Katie) and Marlee Carpenter and his close friend, Ken Budd. 

Cliff always said “you are dead a hell of a long time” and so he lived his life fully. Whatever he did, he did with passion. He began a career in pharmacy after graduating from the University of Toronto in the 1950’s and eventually became the CEO of his own pharmaceutical company in Vancouver. A tireless entrepreneur and self-starter, he would go on to manufacture natural health products in Los Angeles, sell insurance, and finally to build many of the houses on the Sunshine Coast with his own construction company. He reluctantly retired at the age of 79, and took up growing dahlias with a passion, an art he learned from his father, and which he shared with many people on the Coast and beyond.

Cliff had little need of medical services until his late 70s, and he became so very grateful for our health care system. He was treated with unwavering kindness and attentiveness by the hospital and medical specialists of the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver, and in particular Dr. Suzanne Walter, who went above and beyond in her care and concern for his well being. Cliff adored her for it. Dr. Marc Deyell of St. Paul's Hospital was also a constant comfort to Cliff, for 15 years answering any and all questions and concerns about his health.

In honour of Cliff’s memory we suggest planting dahlias, sipping Kahlua, and if you so wish, donating to the Sechelt Hospital Foundation or the Heart/Cardiac Fund at St. Paul's Foundation.

There will be no service, at his request. A gathering in his dahlia garden may be held later this summer for family and close friends.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Clifford Turner Garrett, please visit our floral store.