Clifford Neil Mezo

Clifford Neil Mezo, a proud union man who dedicated many years of his life to steel industry before retiring 1986, passed away peacefully at the age of 98, at his home in Lawrence. Clifford was born on January 26, 1926, in Coral Gables, Florida, only child to Randall Mezo and Willine M. (Minor) Mezo. 

In his youth, Clifford demonstrated remarkable courage by telling a little fib, and entering the military at the tender age of 16. During his service in the Marine Corps. during WWII, he sustained injuries that he carried with him throughout his life. After being honorably discharged, Clifford relocated to Chicago where he began his career in the steel industry. On September 22, 1947, in Champagne, Illinois, he married Ruth Pauline (Johnson) Mezo. Clifford and his wife enjoyed many years dancing and teaching others to dance including his daughters and grandchildren. 

In 1998, Clifford made another significant move to Michigan where he spent his remaining years. 

Clifford is survived by his beloved wife Ruth Pauline (Johnson) Mezo. He was a loving father to two daughters, Brenda (John) Ziemniak and Lila (Lee) Harris; and three sons, Michael (Allison) Mezo, Randall (Susan Dudek) Mezo, and Stanton (Nancy) Mezo. His memory will be cherished by fourteen grandchildren: Scott Ziemniak, Mark Ziemniak, Cheri Woomer, Randall Mezo, Tamara Hill, Lynette Florio-Schultz, Dustin Woomer, Kenny Sonny, Rachel Mezo-Veronesi, Sarah Walsh, Rick Mezo, Jim Mezo, Mark Scibor, Jason Scibor; as well as dozens of great grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.

Clifford was preceded in death by his grandsons, Michael (Carrie) Mezo and Clifford James Woomer.

A gathering of family and friends will be held at Adams Funeral Home, 502 West Michigan Ave., Paw Paw, on Monday, March 25th from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Cremation will follow. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Gentiva Hospice. 
The Gentiva Foundation (gentivahs.com)