Clifton Jeffrey Berry sadly passed away at the age of 64 after a courageous three-year battle with aggressive colon cancer on September 21, 2025, at Saddleback Hospital in Laguna Hills, California. He was surrounded by his wife, his son, and his youngest brother David.

He is survived by Saeideh Berry, who was his loving and devoted wife of almost four decades, their son Mark Berry, his mother Joann Lindquist, his brothers David Berry Jr. and Christopher Berry, his stepsister Lizeth Berry, and his extended family, including his aunt Beverly Ramaut. He was predeceased by his father, David Berry Sr.

Cliff, as he was affectionately known to family and friends, was born in Grosse Pointe, Michigan on December 29, 1960. He moved to California from Michigan in 1985. He married Saeideh, the love of his life, in 1986 after a brief courtship. He worked for the U.S. Postal Service from 1989 until his illness-related retirement in 2022, and he became a respected mentor to many of his colleagues. He eventually settled in Rancho Santa Margarita in 1996, where he and Saeideh raised their son Mark. He was deeply proud to see Mark build a career as an attorney, and in knowing he was a source of inspiration for that path.

Cliff's true, lifelong passion was for art, literature, music, and classic film. He could be frequently found curled up alongside a book, or with his trusty sketchbook and fountain pens. Cliff was a self-taught scholar, who could stay up into the late hours of the night to discuss virtually any topic, ranging from politics, computers, classic or modernist literature, Eastern philosophy, or even the latest trends in the stock market. A lifelong tinkerer, he even taught himself how to repair watches amidst his illness, a testament to his curiosity and perseverance. He had a kind-hearted and gentle soul, and he captivated people not just with his knowledge, but with his charm and wit.

Cliff is deeply missed by his family and friends. His untimely loss will be felt for many years to come, and he shall always be remembered with love. A viewing will be held at 3:00pm on October 5, 2025, at McCormick & Son Mortuary located at 25002 Moulton Parkway, Laguna Hills, CA 92637. His burial service will be held at 10:00am on October 6, 2025, at the El Toro Memorial Park, located at 25751 Trabuco Road, Lake Forest, CA 92630, and will be followed by a reception.