Clifford McDonald Obituary

I will miss Cliff greatly. I used to work at the Santa Fe depot, which was on his regular rounds. One day he came in with a bill of lading to ship a carload of empty kegs back to St. Louis. Everybody was busy filling out their backetology for the NCAA tournament. I handed him a form and told him the price to enter the pool had increased to 2$ this year. He dutifully filled out his bracket and handed it to me, 2$ attached. As he walked out the the door he said "You know, this isn't a railroad station, it's a gambling hall!" I'll never forget Clifford. By the way, his father was a good friend of my grandfather, way back when. They were both active Douglas county democrats.

My condolences to the McDonald family. Cliff was a hoot and I can only imagine how sorely he will be missed.

I am sorry I can not be with you at this time. Norma and I always enjoyed our time in Lawrence with Mom and visiting with Barbara and Cliff. When we moved to Nevada the times we could get up to Kansas were few but we always enjoyed the few times we did.
I know that Cliff found Barbara and Frank and Helen and they are enjoying the reunion. We all have that opportunity and will be together.
Love Uncle Glenn (Sonny) and Nancy.

My sadness is tempered by the memories of "Uncle Cliff," which bring smiles to my eyes. I was blessed to have shared in his friendship, and the family's friendship, with our family over the years. My heart is with you, T,K,C,G & all your family & friends. I hope you write a book so we can smile even more.

I had the privilege of listening to a few of Cliff's court sessions on Saturday mornings at the warehouse. They were some of the best court sessions I ever attended.
To his wonderful children, I am sorry for your loss.

I'm very grateful I got to know Cliff- even if only in his later years. He always had a warm hello, and was so kind to my mom at Pioneer Ridge. It's been a bonus to my friendship with Carol, that we both were able to get to know eachother's parents. He was one of the better 'flirts' I've ever bumped in to- and I'll always remember that twinkle!

I got to know Cliff as I have been life long friends with Kent. There were many a day that I spent over at the McDonald house and they always made me feel welcome. It was not until my late 20's that I really got to experience his true mastery of stories. My father-in-law used to own Willie's Bar and Grill in the 600 blk of Vermont. There would be many a time that I sat with Cliff for lunch there and relished all the fascinating stories of his life's experiences. He will be missed. Kent, best to you my good friend. Stay in touch.
James Frink

Clifford was a friend, a mentor, and he will always be The Budman. His quick smile and ready-with-a-story manner always made him a pleasure to be with.

One of the highlights of my KU days was the occasional trip to McDonald Beverage for “warehouse sandwiches” (Budweiser from the always-ready keg in the cold vault). We'd sit on pallets while Clifford regaled us with stores of the “good old days.”

A favorite memory is of Clifford at The Hawk the day he found out he had “beat” cancer the first time in the late 70's. After multiple rounds-for-the-house he was standing on the bar leading a KU cheer. Hopping down from the bar, after adjusting his belt (always), he shook hands with every single patron and made them new friends.

He lived a full life, always sharing it with family and friends ... and I am richer for it.

Cliff, I will miss your wit, wisdom and stories about all things Lawrence. See you on the other side and we'll share a cold one. - Sara Gillahan

Cliff was an incredible man and raised a great family. We were honored to have known him. Our very best to Greg, Kent and the rest of the family.

Dean Matthews You were a good friend, I will remember, those Thursdays at the Club. RIP my friend.