Clifford M. Lorenzo

Clifford Michael (Stokes) Lorenzo

On Monday, October 21, 2019 the Lord wrapped his arms around our loving Cliff, as he slept, and led him to his heavenly home. Cliff Michael Lorenzo was born on June 21, 1957 in the District of Columbia to Iris (Stokes) Lorenzo. At age six, Luis Lorenzo took Cliff’s hand and called him son. Cliff grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. Cliff was no stranger to hard work. At age 12 Cliff had a paper route delivering papers with his dog Sam, before going to school every morning, to over 50 customers. Cliff believed in working and helping the family by having his own spending money. During high school he honed his bowling skills while working at Hilltop Bowling Alley. Through college, during the summer he was employed at Republic Steel.

After graduating from John F. Kennedy High School in 1975, he went on to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Technology from Central State University.  While attending CSU, Cliff worked for the university’s fire department as a dispatch operator, displayed his athletic skills on the bowling and Karate teams, and was a member of “The Lodge”. 

Cliff met his future wife at karate practice in 1980. He had reservations pursuing his interest, since there was a five year difference in their ages. As time passed and they became friends, he let go of his reservations and asked her out on a date. That was the beginning of a beautiful life together. Cliff and Tracy Ann (Sabbath) Lorenzo married on September 20, 1986 at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Dayton, Ohio. They raised four children and lived active lives together for 33 years. Cliff was a strong, loving, gentle, devoted husband, father and grandfather. He loved his grandchildren and enjoyed the time spent with them, spoiling them as much as possible. 

Cliff had a natural affinity for the colors purple and gold. In the fall of 1985 on September 21st, he became a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Delta Alpha Chapter. 

Anyone who knew Cliff knew he loved sports cars, music, movies, animals, and the newest electronic gadgets. He was a die-hard Cleveland Browns, Indians, and Cavaliers fan. His optimistic outlook each season displayed his true devotion. Cliff was a skilled bowler, bowling in several different leagues over the years, competing in many tournaments and receiving various awards and recognition for the sport. On the eve of his first son’s birth, Cliff nervously asked Tracy, who was in the early stages of delivery, if he could go bowl the last league night. Jokingly, Tracy said, “You better bowl a 300”. That night Cliff bowled his first perfect game and came back to help deliver his first born. 

Cliff retired from the Federal government, as a contractor for the Defense Supply Center Columbus and from Greater Dayton RTA as a bus driver. He has made many friends over the years and will be truly missed.   

Cliff knew the Lord and accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. 

He leaves to cherish his memory, wife, Tracy Lorenzo; four children, Kylon Lorenzo (Christian), Theron Lorenzo, Renon Lorenzo, Amara Lorenzo; parents, Luis and Iris Lorenzo; sister, Lisa Lorenzo; grandchildren, Aaralynn Lorenzo, Layla Lorenzo, Aliyah Lorenzo, Kylon Lorenzo, Jr.; and a host of relatives and friends.  

Cliff led a full life and was known for his kind and compassionate nature. His spirit will live on and hold a special place in our hearts.

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity memorial service 10:30 am Friday, November 1, 2019 at Omega Baptist Chapel (Omega CDC), 1800 Harvard Blvd. Funeral service to follow at 11 am. Visitation 9-10:30 am. Family will receive friends 9:30-10:30 am. Interment Woodland Cemetery.

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