Obituary
Dr. Clifford J. Haff, beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Memorial Day May 26, 2025, at the age of 90. A man of sharp wit, warm humor, and boundless energy, Cliff lived a full life marked by deep devotion to family, a love of laughter, and a passion for the simple pleasures that made every day meaningful.
Cliff grew up in Jennison and Grandville MI, he attended Grandville High School where he met Nora Jean Gilbert. Cliff excelled at sports (Basketball & Track & Field). For many years he held a basketball school record for points scored, before the 3-point shot rule was part of the game.
After serving in the US Navy, Cliff went on to earn his degree as Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine, graduating from Chicago's National Chiropractic College in 1962. He practiced Chiropractic Medicine for 35 years until his retirement in 1997. He opened his own practice in Plainwell, Michigan in 1964. Cliff was very active in the Plainwell community serving as a Plainwell City Commissioner, and was on the Plainwell's 100 Centennial Committee with his wife Nora typing the Centennial Book. Doc Haff could be found Friday nights on the sidelines of Plainwell High School Trojan Football games to assist with any injuries.
An active and vibrant man, he pitched men's fast pitch softball & bowled in leagues. Over the years Cliff & Nora enjoyed camping, boating, snowmobiling, motorcycling, & traveling the world. Well into his later years, Cliff enjoyed riding his bicycle & golfing several times a week, especially while living on Pine Lake and during his winters in Melbourne Beach, Florida. He watched his beloved Tigers, Lions, & auto races to the end.
Cliff was preceded in death by his loving wife of 68 years, Nora Jean (Gilbert) Haff, who passed away on October 13, 2024. Together, they built a beautiful life centered on family, laughter, adventure and love. Cliff is survived by his two daughters: Kathryn Jean Klarecki and her husband Patrick Klarecki of Big Rapids, Michigan, and Elizabeth Ann Farho and her husband Thomas Farho of Plainwell, Michigan. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Carolyn Klarecki Thomason (husband Sean), Elizabeth Klarecki, Andrew Klarecki (wife Karen), Joseph Farho, and Kathryn Farho.
He leaves behind not just cherished memories, but a legacy of kindness, humor, and a life lived fully and without regret. Cliff will be missed deeply by all who knew him, but his spirit will live on in every smile shared and every joke told in his honor.
Cremation has taken place. Per their wishes, no service or viewing will take place. A Celebration for Clifford & Nora Haff will be held at Doster Golf Course, Plainwell MI on Wednesday July 2. The open house will be from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
The family would like to thank Centrica Hospice & Stanford Lodge for Cliff's comfort & care. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Centrica or Stanford Lodge.