Cliff, Charles Clifford Paine Jr., 73, of Cobb, California, entered into God’s kingdom on November 17, 2023. He was born on February 28, 1950, to Charles Sr. and Estela Paine.
As the eldest of six children in nine years, Cliff became highly responsible at a young age. Cliff was a devoted son, brother, and uncle who lived a humble life filled with loving his family, spiritual awareness and serving others.
Cliff was a naturally gifted athlete and a star in every sport he played, including baseball, basketball, football, and track. He graduated from Burroughs High School in 1968. He attended Loyola University on an academic scholarship and excelled playing football. Despite Cliff’s small stature, he was known on the football field for his speed and toughness. There was no one more riveting to watch on the athletic field than Cliff. He was awarded the Los Angeles Times Southern California Athlete of the Week honors several times.
Cliff succeeded in academics and professional pursuits. He took a pause from college and did some “soul searching.” He worked in construction and completed his carpenter’s apprenticeship. He returned to college at Cerro Coso Community College as a part of the first Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) program, graduating in 1975 near the top of his class. He also became a Certified Massage Therapist to enhance his nursing care. He laid his life down for others on numerous occasions, working hard and serving compassionately.
For many years, Cliff followed his teacher and spiritual leader, Adi Da Samraj, who brought him wisdom and deep and long-lasting friendships. Of special mention are Craig and Bernadette Moyers, Tom McBroom, and Robert Rothemich. Being raised Catholic, Cliff embraced the love of Jesus. Near the end of his life, he requested the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, which he received, acknowledging Jesus as his Lord.
Cliff faithfully loved his family and was generous without reservation. He had simple tastes, and material possessions were never important to him. Relationships were his priority. His love, support, and presence were deeply felt by his family and friends alike. “His children” were his nephews and nieces. He delivered his whole being to each of them with wisdom, playfulness and joy. He was a man of true integrity.
Cliff’s impact will be forever felt by his family and friends. His passing left an unfillable gap in the hearts of his loved ones. His ability to sacrifice, provide, support, forgive, and love will be forever engrained in all he knew.
He is survived by his sister, Dr. Rita Rich (Darrell Rich); brother, Edward Paine (Maria); sister, Terri J. Clarke (Dr. Steve Clarke); sister, Mary Lynne Bachman (Dr. Michael Bachman Sr.). He was adored by his many nephews and nieces. He was pre-deceased by his parents, Charles and Estela and his younger brother, Steven Mark Paine.
A memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 23, at St Ann’s Catholic Church, 446 W Church Street, Ridgecrest, California 93555. A reception and Celebration of Life will follow at MSGR Kevin Cleary Parish Hall.
Donations can be made to the Burroughs High School Athletic website, burrosathletics.org