In Loving Memory of

Clifford Williams

of Edmonton
Feb 9, 2022

Clifford Johnston Williams

June 15, 1933 - February 9, 2022

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Father and Grandfather, Cliff Williams at the age of 88. Cliff is survived by his son, Trevor Williams (Karen); his daughter, Tracie Williams; granddaughter, Jenna Williams (Matt); and grandson, Sean Williams.

Cliff was predeceased by his cherished wife, Margaret in 2017; his parents, Dave and Nettie Williams; and his brother, Al Williams.

A lifelong Edmontonian, Cliff grew up in Westmount. At the tender age of 16, Cliff embarked on a career as a plumber/pipefitter. During the 1950's Cliff plied his trade all over Alberta and the Northwest Territories.

During this time, he met and married the love of his life, Margaret and started their family soon thereafter.

In 1959 Cliff decided to become the master of his own destiny and founded Williams Plumbing and Heating. He was joined in this endeavour by his brother Al Williams and brother-in-law, Hank Zimmerman.

Over the next 25 years, they grew this company into one of the largest Mechanical contracting firms in Alberta, employing well over 100 people at times. Williams Plumbing was involved in countless projects in Alberta, including the Walter C. McKenzie Health Sciences Center at the U of A, the Edmonton Police Headquarters, the office towers of Scotia Place, and several hospitals throughout rural Alberta.

Cliff always believed in giving back to the industry where he made his living, and to this end was heavily involved in the Mechanical Contractors Association of Edmonton, eventually serving as President.

Through his involvement in the industry, Cliff was one of the founders of what would become Construction Labor Relations Alberta. After leaving Williams Plumbing in 1987, Cliff went to work for the organization he helped create as a Senior Labour Relations Officer until his retirement in 1998.

While working with CLR, Cliff was invited to serve on the Alberta Labour Relations Board, where he became one of its longest serving board members.

In 2001, a lifetime of service to the construction industry resulted in Cliff being invited to become the Chairman of the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training Board, a position he eagerly accepted.

Cliff relished his role as Chairman and was instrumental in creating a $1.3 million industry scholarship fund during his six-year tenure.

In recognition of his lifetime achievements in the construction industry, he was awarded the Alberta Centennial Medal in 2005, and an honorary certificate in Engineering Technology from NAIT.

Despite his busy career, Cliff always found time to really enjoy life with family and friends. He and Margaret loved to golf, travel, and entertain and were always exceptional hosts.

We will miss Cliff's wisdom, mentoring, and his wicked sense of humor.

We are grateful for his time with us, and we are so blessed that he led such a full and productive life.

The family will hold a Celebration of Life for Cliff in the Spring. Details will be announced later.