Clifford Todd Leider
March 26, 1926 - October 11, 2008
Obituary
Clifford ‘C.T.’ Leider
Cliff passed away on October 11, 2008 after an extended illness at the age of 82. Born March 26, 1926 in Chicago, he spent his early years there, later moving to the Ohio areas of Cleveland and Oberlin. He graduated from Oberlin High School and went on to join the Navy when he turned 18. He served in the South Pacific during WW II, assigned to the Fleet Air Wing 17 where he flew in a B-34/PV aircraft throughout the Pacific Theater. Returning to Ohio after the war, he went to college on the GI bill, attending Oberlin College and Bowling Green University, studying the fine arts. After graduation, the lure of aircraft and flying returned- and he began a career in the relatively new business of international travel agencies and tour guides. It was there he met his future wife of 53 years, Ruth Stevens. Working as a stewardess for Air Canada, she met Cliff on one of his frequent trips on the airline.
They married and resided in Oberlin until 1965. At that time, Cliff’s uncle, who owned a growing aluminum recycling smelter in Seattle, convinced him of the natural beauty of the area and to move across the continent to join him in the business. After returning to school to learn metallurgy, he became the plant manager for many years.
He and Ruth resided in South King County for his remaining 43 years. Not surprisingly, their home was within a short drive of a panoramic view of the airport, where he would often spend evenings pointing out the various airlines and aircraft. He and Ruth loved to garden, and created a beautiful yard with many unique and ornamental plants. Having a furry friend around was also very important, and both Ruth and Cliff were proud ‘parents’ to several four-legged creatures throughout their lives.
Cliff was preceded in death by his loving wife Ruth. He is survived by his son Richard Elizabeth, grandchildren Alex, Trevor, Danielle and Christian, his beloved nephew and nieces Steve Mary Lou, Linda Geoff, Jill, Claire John, and his sister-in-law Marion.
Memorial services will be held at Bonney-Watson Parker Chapel, 900 SW 146th Street, Burien, WA, October 23, 11:00 am.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to an animal shelter of your choice.
Please sign the online memorial guestbook at www.bonneywatson.com.
Cliff and Ruth were such great neighbors and friends. We fondly remember summer pot luck BBQs and the Seafair Hydro Races. We appreciated their friendship with our sons when they were growing up. We send our sympathy.