Neil G Gifford

GIFFORD, Neil G.
Portage, Michigan Neil passed away Tuesday morning, July 29, 2008 at Bronson Methodist Hospital. He was born September 20 , 1936 in Constantine, MI, the son of the late Glendon and Ruth Klett Gifford. Neil began his career in the trailer industry, before working for 26 years in the soft-drink industry. He retired from Pharmacia in 2002 after 14 years of service. Neil loved and supported his grandchildren in their educational and intramural activities by supporting Homeschool Performing Arts and Kalamazoo Christian football and basketball games. His wife, children, and grandchildren were the greatest joy in his life. Neil was an avid fan of the Kalamazoo Wings hockey team and was a season ticket holder for many years. On July 2, 1957, he was united in marriage to Sonja Kinney in Constantine. Surviving are his wife of 51 years, Sonja Gifford; their 3 children, Scott Vicky Gifford of Byron, MN, Tammy Jim Vander Horst of Richland, and Gary Elizabeth Gifford of Portage; 8 grandchildren, Brandon and Derek Gifford, Daniel and David Vander Horst; and Michael, Matthew, Katherine, and Andrew Gifford; 5 brothers and sisters, Wayne Sandy Gifford, Janet Daniel Mergener, Rose Bob Moore, Kaye Fred Herriff, and David Carol Gifford; a close uncle, Bruce Pat Klett; and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorial services for Neil will be at 11:30 AM on Monday at Calvary Bible Church Chapel, 855 S. Drake Road, with Pastor Bryan Craddock officiating. A private family interment will be held at a later date. As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be directed to Angel Tree or Toys for Tots. Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel, 411 E. Centre Avenue. www.langelands.com