Clifton “Cliff” Wilderspin, 94, passed peacefully in his sleep on the morning of April 7, 2016. He was born February 23, 1922 to Clifton and Alta “Estelle” Wilderspin in Grand Saline, Texas. It was the challenging experiences of his youth that inspired him to strike out into the world.After graduating from Paschal High School in Ft. Worth Texas, Cliff joined the National Guard in 1938, and was then assigned to the 56th Army Calvary Brigade, where he served as Platoon Sergeant at Fort Brown in Brownsville Texas, until 1942. Later he served with the Army Air Corps where he trained bombardiers. Upon moving to Midland in 1947, Cliff worked with Pure Oil Co. as a scout, and for Honolulu Oil Co. and ultimately transitioned into a lengthy career as an Independent Landman. In 1965 Cliff partnered with Bernie House to form the independent land brokerage company called Wilderspin & House, Inc. He remained in the oil and gas industry for the rest of his days. Cliff was a member of the American Association of Petroleum Landmen; Permian Basin Landman’s Association and New Mexico Landman’s Association. Cliff was a member of the Masons and he was an active supporter of the Shriners Children’s Hospitals.He married Terrence Kearney in November of 1943 in San Angelo and had one daughter, Cheryl. Cliff and Terry bought a ranch in Las Vegas, New Mexico in the early 1980’s. They raised cattle and bred and raised race horses, which was a passion of Cliff’s for 36 years. In his younger days, he enjoyed playing Polo, golfing, hunting and fishing. He also acquired his pilot’s license in 1956 and enjoyed flying planes for many years. Cliff and Terry loved Midland, their friends, family and of course, their dogs.Those who knew him best remember Cliff as a kind but strong man. Cliff will always be remembered for his ornery personality and eyebrow raising advice. He was always quick to help a friend, and was equally as quick to tease a friend in good natured jest. He was a master story-teller and captivated many an audience with tales ranging from humorous to heartbreaking. His second home was found out at Midland Country Club, where his wit and company was most often shared around a game of gin.We thank you all for your generosity, friendship and support of “Cliff”. A special thank you to the staff and volunteers at Hospice of Midland. We appreciate all of your time and thoughtfulness. He was in great hands with all of you and we are grateful to have had such loving, caring people around to help.Cliff is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, daughter and sister, Roberta Reuter. He is survived by three grandsons, Dustin Pannell and wife Christine of Midland, Texas, Colton Pannell and wife Melissa of Aledo, Texas and Nathan Pannell of Midland, Texas. Also, three great grandchildren, Sydney Pannell, Ryan Pannell and Katelynn Pannell. His nephew, Bob and wife Karen Reuter and family, and cousin Jack Wilderspin and family, from Cambridge England.Cliff was an oilman, rancher, cowboy and friend who lived a long and fulfilling life, bringing laughter and love to all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.Cliff’s wishes were to have his ashes spread at the family ranch in New Mexico. A memorial service will be held at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home Chapel in Midland Texas, Saturday April 16, 2016 at 1:00 pm. Immediately following the service, the family will receive friends to honor and celebrate the life of Cliff, at the Midland Country Club. In lieu of flowers please make donations to Hospice of Midland or charity of your choice.Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com. ,
