Clifford F. Messal, age 93, of Gainesville, Florida passed into eternal life January 3, 2014 very peacefully at a local nursing home. A 44-year Master Plumber from Cleveland, Ohio, he was married 70 years to Lois A. Duncan Messal.
He was a phenomenal father to 2 sons, Richard & John Messal, loving father-in-law to Tucki & Beth, and a fantastic, fun grandfather to 7 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
He joined the US Navy in 1942, married Lois in 1943 while on leave, and returned to the war (WWII) until 1945. He then became a plumber for Lois’ father, (JV Duncan Plumbing & Heating Co.) subsequently becoming the owner. Cliff and Lois retired to Gainesville in 1980 and he became a Master Wood Worker, building hundreds of memorable treasures for friends and family.
Cliff enjoyed most of all, dedicating his life to Gethsemane Lutheran Church and the Lord – from building/ground maintenance to the annual Easter Pancake Breakfast each Easter for 29 years. He also served as an usher and council member.
Visitation will be from 5:00 – 7:00 PM Friday, January 10, 2014 at Forest Meadows Funeral Home, 725 NW 23rd Ave, Gainesville. Funeral Services will be at 10:30 AM Saturday, January 11, 2014 at Gethsemane Lutheran Church, 3911 NW 34th Street, Gainesville. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gethsemane Lutheran Church.
To: The Messal Family.I am sorry for your lost.There is hope for Clifford.May,the Father of tender mercise and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our trails so that we may be able to comfort others in any sort of trail with the comfort that we receive from God.-2 Corinthians 1:3b,4.May the hope of the resurrection at John 11:25 bring you comfort.Your love one will be raised up.To “a new earth that we are awaithin according to his (Jehovah’s) promise in these righteousness is to dwell.”-2 Peter 3:13.