Obituary: Clifford W. (“Cliff”) Alger, 77, of West Haven

Cliff Alger died suddenly at the West Haven Veterans Hospital on October 11, 2024, following a sudden cardiac arrest complicated by pneumonia. He had just been admitted.

Cliff was born to Ernest and Marion Alger on June 18, 1947, in Cambridge, MA. A life-long CT resident, Cliff grew up in Fairfield and attended Roger Ludlowe HS. He enlisted in the Marine Corps and served from 1965-1969. He rose to the rank of Sergeant. He loved the Corps and was very proud of his service. Cliff lived in Ansonia and Milford before moving to West Haven.

After the Marines, he worked at Sturm Ruger in Southport, receiving many commendations for his performance as head of their service department. He became a car and truck mechanic, who for a time had his own business: HASCO (Home Auto Service Company) with brother-in-law, Bob Swain. Cliff was later certified as a Master Mechanic and worked at Robert’s Service Center in Milford for 25 years. A notable regular client was the actor Paul Newman who would ask for Cliff by name. Cliff was a perfectionist in all he did. He was much respected by his co-workers.

Cliff enjoyed boats and put years into refurbishing a salvaged 25’ cabin cruiser, eventually turning it into a virtual work of art. He often took it out on Long Island Sound. Cliff also enjoyed planes and earned his pilot's license. He got a big thrill from flying. Cliff was also a skilled woodworker who could make or repair almost anything. He loved being outdoors, taking the family on camping trips and hiking in New Hampshire. Cliff was extremely likeable, friendly, and always glad to give a helping hand to anyone who needed one.

Cliff was married to Michelle Baker (1967 div. 1973). He and Wanda Sanchez were married (1974 div. 1997) and had three children (Jessica Delgado, Kimberly Alger Lessard, and Clifford W. Alger Jr.) In 1998 Cliff and Jeannie L. Rich got engaged and remained together in West Haven until his death. He was a devoted and loyal caregiver for over 20 years after Jeannie suffered a brain aneurysm. Cliff had close bonds with Jeannie’s children (Marc Rich, Lorrie Pearson, and Cheryl Rich).

Cliff is survived by a brother, Bradley, a sister, Christine, his three children, and a combined 11 grandchildren and 8 nieces and nephews. He will be very dearly missed.

There will be a Military Memorial Service at the Veterans State Cemetery, 317 Bow Lane in Middletown, CT. on Friday Nov. 15th at 2:00 pm. A gathering will follow at the Fellowship Church, 1002 Old Saybrook Road, Middletown, from 2:30-5:00. All are welcome.