Dr. Clifford Lumbert

There are some for which it can be said that the world is a far better place because they were here, and Dr. Clifford Lumbert was such a man. His touch reached countless people both close to home and miles away, using his hands to help those who were unable to help themselves out of a heart that knew no bounds. Clifford’s compassionate touch didn’t just end with people either, since he also had a special place in his heart for animals, especially those in need. It was easy to see by the way in which he lived his life that his faith and his family were the most important cornerstones in his life each and every day.

During a year in which Charlie Chaplin was just beginning his career, Halley’s Comet flashed across the horizon for the first time since 1759, and the Boy Scouts were established in the United States, 1910 was a year to remember. This was a year of great significance in the family of Willard and Lilly Ann (Brockie) Lumbert as they welcomed the birth of their son, Clifford, on January 20th. Clifford was born in Sebewa Township Michigan, located in Ionia County as one of six boys in his family. Shortly after he was born, Clifford’s family moved from Sunfield to a farm in Eagle Township, located just a bit to the east. He attended a country school for much of his education including his early years in high school. On his way to and from school, Clifford drove his horse and buggy past the home of a young girl named Nola Gillett whom he usually picked up on his way. Later when he attended Grand Ledge High School, he continued to pick Nola up, their relationship growing all the while.

After graduating from high school, Clifford traveled down a few different roads. He initially went away to Albion College, but he left school after two years and went to work for Fisher Body. He worked there for five years and then returned to Albion where he finished his undergraduate degree. After graduating from Albion, he attended the University of Michigan Dental School. During this time, Clifford married his sweetheart, Nola, on July 25, 1937 in Angola, Indiana. After graduating, Clifford joined the Army and was stationed in Oklahoma while Nola taught school. When in the Army, Clifford earned the rank of major and took part in the liberation of Dachau Concentration Camp, which was the first Nazi concentration camp, located in southern Germany.

After he was discharged, Clifford returned home and had an offer to begin a private dental practice in Ovid with one of his dentist friends. Before he was able to give a definitive answer, a dentist in St. Johns died, and Clifford decided to purchase this practice and settle in St. Johns. Over the years, he became actively involved in his community. Clifford was a member of the VFW #4113, the American Legion #153, served on the bank board, and was a member of the Exchange Club, the Masonic Lodge #105, and the First United Methodist Church in St. Johns. Clifford also was the former president of the Clinton County Cancer Society. As much as these affiliations meant to Clifford, nothing meant more to him than his family. He shared an abiding love with Nola as evidenced by the way they always signed their letters back and forth – Semper Fi, which means always faithful. They were inseparable throughout their entire married life, sharing many of their interests together. Their love grew to include two wonderful children, Lorinda and Luane, whom both Clifford and Nola adored.

It seemed that whatever he was doing, Clifford threw himself into it whole-heartedly. He was a compassionate man who travelled to destitute countries on three separate occasions to use his dental skills on a very grateful populace. His tender touch reached those closer to home as well as Clifford did home visits for the elderly whenever he was able. He also had a deep love for animals and was found to have fed poor puppies more than once. In fact, Clifford took care of just about any animal that could open their big, brown eyes. If he was given a choice between a Rolls-Royce and a good dog, a good dog would always win, hands down. Clifford was able to accomplish nearly anything he set out to do and was even referred to as a jack of all trades and master of most.

There were many interests that Clifford enjoyed throughout his long life. He loved woodworking and was passionate about his garden. When his family grew to include grandchildren, Clifford was thrilled. One of his favorite things to do was to play cards with his granddaughter. After he and Nola retired, they traveled extensively, and Clifford couldn’t help but have a little fun firing up the rivalry between the University of Michigan and Michigan State University. He had a great sense of humor when he wanted to, and he never could resist a good practical joke.

It is a difficult task to summarize the life of such an extraordinary man whose life spanned an entire century. Clifford Lumbert brought so much to the world around him whether through his vibrant laughter, his compassionate spirit, or his overall zest for life. He continually put the needs of others ahead of his own, often asking, “What can I do for you?” Clifford was always there for anyone who needed him in ways great or small. He leaves behind a legacy that is rich in faith, unconditional love, and sacrifice that will be forever treasured by those he leaves behind. He will be dearly missed.

Dr. Clifford Lumbert died March 16, 2010. Clifford’s family includes his daughter, Lorinda Lumbert, and son, Luane (Cathy) Lumbert, also granddaughter, Lesley Lumbert, grandson, Quillan Lumbert, and many nieces and nephews. Preceding Clifford in death was his wife, Nola, brothers, Loile, Lorence, Leonard, Joseph and Arzeno. Funeral Services will be at 11:00 a.m., on Friday, March 19, 2010, at First United Methodist Church, with Rev. Lori Sykes and Pastor Cayle Beagle officiating. Burial will follow at N. Eagle Cemetery. The family will receive friends at Osgood Funeral Home, 104 E. Cass St., on Thursday, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you can leave a favorite memory or photo, sign his online guestbook, or make a memorial contribution to Operation Smile or the American Cancer Society.