Clemence Ray Poff passed away peacefully on March 22, 2026, at the age of 92, with loved ones by his side. Clem was predeceased by his wife of 28 years, Dorothy Poff, and is survived by their two daughters: Lynn Cassidy (Neil) and Vicki Kipps (Rob); his grandchildren: Emily Walsh (Shawn), Marshall Walsh (Amanda), Katie Walsh (James), Rachel Kipps (Herman), and Carter Kipps (Christine); and his great-grandchildren: Amara, Henry, and Kaydence.
Clem is also survived by his loving partner of 29 years, Beverly Carter; her son Doug Carter (Anita); her son-in-law Brad Bryan; her granddaughters Laurie and Katie (Jesse); and her great-granddaughter Georgia. He was predeceased by Bev’s children, David Carter and Judy Bryan.
Born in Bancroft, Ontario, Clem was the son of the late William and Hazel Poff and the eldest of ten children. Members of his family continue to live in Bancroft and the surrounding area, including his brother Kevin Poff (Linda), sister Verrill Eddy (Richard), and his many nieces and nephews. Following a childhood on the family farm, Clem began working at the age of twelve, helping Mr. Chatterson on his farm and delivering papers and milk in the community. At fourteen, fifteen, and sixteen, he spent his summers working 100 miles from home at the Standard Chemical Company lumber mill.
In 1950, Clem joined the local Reserves and, after passing a typing test, found work in Oshawa at the Ontario Malleable Iron Company. Looking for more adventure, Clem and a few friends traveled to Kingston, Ontario, later that year to enlist in the Army for duty in the Korean War. Though not needed for Korea, they were enlisted in the new Infantry Brigade for NATO duty in Germany. So began a successful and adventure-filled 31-year career. Throughout his military service, Clem traveled the world, lived and worked across Canada, and served on peacekeeping duties in Cyprus and Egypt. Upon retiring from the military in Victoria in 1982, he worked another thirteen and a half years as a bus driver at CFB Esquimalt.
Once Clem officially retired in 1995, he continued to enjoy time with his family, friends, and his passions of gardening and fishing—especially hosting his annual “creamy veg” event. He leaves behind an extended, loving family and many dear friends. He will be truly missed.
A Celebration of Clem’s Life and reception will be held Tuesday, April 21st, 2026, from 2:00pm in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria BC V8Y 1B4.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “Poff” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
16 Responses
Condolence to the family from all members of the Edmonton Branch of the PPCLI Association. Once a Patricia Always a Patricia. At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember him. May he Rest In Peace. VP
We’d like to extend our deepest sympathy on Clem’s passing. Clem was such a kind and caring person so he will be sorely missed. We spent many wonderful times with him on various occasions over the years. Our oldest son Timothy and Vicki & Rob all graduated together from Belmont High School. Thus our connection with him goes back many years. We will not be able to make it down to Victoria for Clem’s celebration of life but we’ll definitely be there in spirit.
Oh Bev. I’m so sorry to hear of Clem’s passing. My heart & thoughts are with you as you walk this difficult path ahead without your loving partner. Sending you hugs. My condolences to you & Clem’s family.
On behalf of Ladd and Barb Hedlik our deepest sympathies to the families. Clem was a wonderful person and will be missed His and Bev’s annual Veggie BBQ was enjoyed by all and was an event that the gang always looked forward to.
Lisete Cabrita
I was very fortunate to have known Clem, for many years as a friend and a good neighbour.
I will always remember Clem working in is vegetable garden and offering me advice on my on garden which I very much appreciate.
Sending Condolences from me and my family
To Bev and all the family.
Rest in Peace Clem
My condolences to the Poff family. I have very many fond memories of our time in the Guards and also on our posting to Germany. Our families would get together for meals and good times.
So very sorry to hear of Clems passing. My late husband Brian and myself were very good friends of Dorothy and Clem. Condolences to Lynn and Vicky and families.
It is with great sadness We read of Clem’s passing. We spent a couple hours with him a couple summers ago. His garden was magnificent. We were so impressed with his ability to do all the work. I think he was 90 then. We knew him and Dorothy back in Petawawa when he was in the 2nd Canadian Guards. He was a great guy, easy going and he always appeared laid back. Our condolences to Bev and all the family. Rest in Peace Clem.
I was fortunate to know Clem for many years and to be able to call Him “Friend”.
We served together in 3PPCLI and there was no finer soldier. Clem, Ralph King and
I often got together and discussed “World Affairs” and just enjoyed each others
Company. I will miss you my Friend and you will always be remembered.
Grant
Please accept my condolences I will always remember Clem visiting with Bev and him.
I have special memories. Thinking of you all at this difficult time
Special hugs