CARSTENSEN: William Clifford Carstensen, better known as Cliff, was born in the Gallivan district Feb. 9, 1929. He was an accomplished pianist, who could also entertain for hours on the piano accordion. He spent forty years as a truck driver, quitting in 1983 due to ill health. This did not curtail his passion for automobiles. Starting in 1954 with the help of friends, Dennis Roberts and Ian Shnack they built their first stock car, a bright yellow beauty with the number 700 boldly painted in black. They raced in Saskatoon. Lloydminster, Prince Albert, Rosetown and in the home oval in Battleford. After the stock car fever abated, Cliff used his knowledge, ability and love of vintage vehicles to restore many of them to original condition. One prized vehicle, which he drove in many parades, took to show and shine events, was his Plymouth. Most of his restored vehicles had names, this one was Hafford Helen, it was located sitting in a slough about 10 miles east of Hafford. Cliff and Elizabeth often shared a joke about Anastasia, his 1932 Chevy, that when he died the car would be his resting place - but first it would be filled with cement so no one would be tempted to dig it up. He was actively involved with every aspect of the service station at the Fred Light Museum, in planning and fund raising, this was Cliff's brainchild, it is indeed sad that he will not see its completion. At an appointment in August of this year, when the doctor wanted him admitted to hospital, he replied that he would come for admission in two days as he could not miss the scheduled meeting of the car club regarding the service station. Cliff was an active volunteer at the Western Development Museum; a founding member of the Battlefords Vintage Car Club and a member of the Battlefords Northwest Historical Society. He enjoyed the coffee sessions with friends at Peter's place and at the fire hall. He was admitted to Battlefords Union Hospital the evening of Sept. 23 after he had spent a full afternoon doing his usual visit to the building site of the service station. Service of Thanksgiving was held Thursday, November 21, 2013 from Third Avenue United Church, North Battleford, SK with Rev. Frances Patterson officiating. Interment took place at The City Cemetery, North Battleford, SK. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service. (306) 446-4200 ____________________________________________________
