The Bill Clifford Scholarship continued ....

Under their mentorship, Bill learned everything from sample preparation to all aspects of wet chemical analysis and fire assaying.

Bill moved on to X-Ray Assay Laboratories Ltd., a commercial laboratory in Toronto, where he worked in the Analytical Lab preparing samples and analyzing them by x-ray fluorescence and atomic absorption methods.

Bill then moved on to work as the Chief Assayer at Dome Mines, South Porcupine, Ontario, for 11 years. There he was responsible for all aspect of the department: personnel, budget, capital expenditures, purchasing, as well as ensuring the quality of analysis of 300 + samples a day - all with a keen focus on new method development.

Bill joined Mines Assay Supplies in 1986 as the General Manager; his knowledge of the business and products dovetailed nicely into sales. Mines Assay was purchased by Anachemia Science in 1993. Bill managed the Kirkland Lake Branch for 11 years before moving to a Director of Sales position at Anachemia in the Vancouver Office where he worked until he retired.

Bill became a member of the Canadian Mineral Analysis in 1976 and he remained active until his passing in May 2015. He was Secretary and Treasurer for many years. When mining had slow years and there was some doubt that the annual conference would happen, Bill took up the cause and was known at the annual event to be always on the lookout for someone who would commit to "Host" the next conference. Bill was instrumental in ensuring the CMA continued each year. He was also instrumental in assisting Jack Simmons to set up the Society of Mineral Analysts in the US.

Bill was very passionate and committed to the continuing education of people who were interested in entering the mining industry. This was evidenced through not only his active membership in the CMA and SMA, but also through the mentorship and support he offered others.

Over the years Bill never stopped growing or learning. He took a two-year course in General Chemistry, a course to study conversational French, safety courses, photography, golf lessons, to name a few. He volunteered for the United Way, the CNIB, the Canadian Red Cross, the United Church, a Christmas Food Fund, he coached soccer, and he was an avid Toronto Maple Leafs fan.

Bill enjoyed his annual family fishing trips, and treasured his family.

He is sadly missed by all who knew him and shared his life.