Daniel E. Clifford

Daniel E. Clifford, D.D.S.

Daniel Emmett Clifford passed away at home with his family by his side on July 10, 2021. Dan was born December 5, 1933, in Cheyenne, Wyoming to Daniel P. and Eva Anderson Clifford. He was amused by the fact that Prohibition was repealed the day he was born. He attended Creighton University and graduated from the dental school in 1957. He married the love of his life, Patricia C. Callanan in August 1955. Following the completion of active military service (Captain, USAF) in Tucson, Arizona he and his family settled in Albuquerque where he established his private dental practice in 1960.

Dr. Dan went on to have a successful practice in general dentistry due to his strong, honest work ethic. After his son Paul joined his practice in 1983, he limited the scope of his work to the treatment of TMJ disorders, head & neck pain, and sleep disorders. On a professional level, he served as President of the Albuquerque District Dental Society, as the Interim Director of the UNM Dental Hygiene Program, and on the boards of various professional associations. Over the years he received numerous professional awards and certifications. He was especially proud of having achieved Diplomate status in the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain and the American Academy of Orofacial Pain.

While Dan took great fulfilment from his profession, nothing could compare to the pride he had in his four children. He is preceded in death by his parents and his sons Christopher and Baron. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Patricia; son Bernard and wife Rosella, son Paul, daughter Carol and daughter-in-law Susann. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Christopher and Patrick Clifford; Catherine, Daniel and Elizabeth McCarthy-Clifford; Andrew, Margaret and Alexander Benson; and extended family, Stacy and Justin Winburn.

Dan was an amazing man with many interests and hobbies. He had a great love for photography and together with his beloved Pat, traveled on numerous excursions resulting in some beautiful photographic art. An irrepressible audiophile, Dan naturally had a great love of music, particularly jazz and classical. His collection was quite vast and his insights regarding the music and behind the scenes stories were always entertaining. Particularly endearing was his easy laugh, wonderful sense of humor and quick wit. He was always very entertaining. Dan's unconditional love for his family, friends, patients and dogs clearly exhibited his soft, gentle nature. We always felt truly loved and appreciated while in his company. He will be greatly missed by all of us that knew and loved him.

The family would like to thank the caregivers and staff at Good Samaritan Society, specifically Toni Trujillo, Joyce Miller, Barbara Davis, Ammie Mendoza, Irma Ramos, Ruth Anaya and Julie Johnson for their compassion and care over the last few years.

A Rosary will be recited on Wednesday, July 21st, 6 PM at FRENCH-Wyoming. The Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of the Annunciation Church, 2532 Vermont Ave, NE on Thursday July 22nd at 8:30 AM. Interment to follow immediately at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to Animal Humane New Mexico.