ORANGE- Clifford J. “Cliff” Fournier, 90, of Whitney Street, died on Wednesday, April 13, 2022 at the Lahey Clinic Hospital in Burlington following an illness.
Born in Athol on November 2, 1931, he was the son of Nelda (Maroni) Fournier and grew up in Orange, graduating from Orange High School in 1950. He later graduated from Fitchburg State Teachers College.
On December 27, 1951, Cliff enlisted in the United States Navy and served during the Korean Conflict. He was honorably discharged on December 19, 1955.
Cliff was a special education teacher for the Town of Erving for 32 years before retiring.
Education was extremely important to Cliff, and he served numerous times on the Ralph C. Mahar School Committee (serving as Chairman for many years), the Orange Elementary School Committee as well as the Franklin County Technical School Committee. He championed for all students to receive an education they deserved. He took in and supported over 200 foster children and international students during his life, with many of the exchange students acknowledging him with Letters to the Editor yearly, praising him for his guidance and support while getting an American education.
Not only was education important to Cliff, but so was helping people, but especially making sure the less fortunate were fed. Cliff oversaw and prepared numerous community meals throughout the North Quabbin area. He was very involved with the annual Food-A-Thon drive to collect food and funds for 5 food pantries in the area. Cliff was known to at one time have 8 freezers in his home to store food (which he had gone around to various markets to collect), too use for meals or help a family in distress.
In 2015, Cliff was recognized for all his community involvement by being named The Recorder’s Citizen of the Year.
Well known by many, he will certainly be missed.
Cliff is survived by sons, Chad Fournier of Orange and Walter M. Donbeck of Texas; a sister, Joyce Potiner of Leominster; several nephews and nieces; and well over 200 children he cared for.
Calling hours will be held on Sunday, April 24, 2022 from 1-3 p.m. at Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange.
A committal service with military honors will be held on Monday, April 25, 2022 at 11 a.m. in South Cemetery, 585 South Main Street, Orange.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.
Guest book and directions online at WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM
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