Lasting Memories

Frank B. Cliff
April 8, 1927-Feb. 18, 2012
Palo Alto, California
Submitted by Kelly Cliff Worcester

Santa Clara County Superior Court Judge and loving father Frank B. Cliff passed away earlier this month in his home Feb. 18, 2012.

The Honorable "Just call me Frank" was 84 years old and a Palo Alto resident since 1939. Prior to 1939 Frank served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He served in Alaska.

Frank attended grade school in Palo Alto starting at Jorden Middle School and then onto Palo Alto High School. He went to college at Pomona then onto San Jose State University, where he met his wife and a loving mother, Shirley (Lee) Cliff (deceased Nov. 13, 2007).

After graduating from Hastings Law school in San Francisco in 1952, he joined the law firm of Cliff and Nowinski Inc. in Palo Alto. At age 50 he was appointed to the bench by Gov. Edmond G. Brown Jr. in January 1978. Judge Cliff served on the Superior court from 1978-2002.

He has been quoted as being one of the most conscientious and disciplined Judges. He would often stay up until 3-4 a.m. working on a case, and out the door to work by 8 a.m.

Quote: "No Judge worked harder then Frank Cliff, and no one enjoyed the work more."

Frank Cliff was held with high regard and respect within the legal and judicial community. He had a reputation for doing things his own way, which his daughter Kelly will confirm, "My dad was calling the shots all the way to the end."

For those who knew him personally, they will all agree that his joie de vivre was his family, friends, great sense of humor, good food accompanied with a nice bottle of "1958 Chateau Latour" along with good jazz music.

We feel so blessed to have had such an amazing man in this community, a loving and supportive father. He will be truly missed.

He is survived by his son, David Cliff of Palo Alto; daughter, Kelly Cliff Worcester, Hawaii; and his granddaughter, Megan Cliff of Palo Alto.