Rev. Cliff Pendlebury, a husband and father of three who served as pastor at St. Paul’s United Church for the past 16 years, died of a heart attack Saturday while on his way home after officiating his niece’s wedding in Toronto.
Judy McConnell, administrator at St. Paul’s, worked with Pendlebury for the past 10 years. She described the beloved pastor as a leader who helped bring the church together.
“He was a wonderful minister who brought this church to the church it is today. He’s been here 16 years, and we’re such a strong church – not just within our own walls, but within the community and the world,” she said.
An emotional McConnell noted Pendlebury was the leading force behind numerous projects, such as building a school in Sierra Leone and bringing a family from a Thai refuge camp.
News of his death came as a surprise to parishioners, she said.
“Everybody at the church is just in shock. He was only 59 years old (and) there hadn’t really been any signs of this…. It just happened instantly,” she said. “It’s so devastating for the family and for the congregation because they’d come from hard times and, under Cliff’s leadership, (it became) a very strong and healthy church.”
Midland Mayor Jim Downer described Pendlebury as a man who was committed to family and community.
“He was a terrific man … (and) a terrific husband to Zena. She praised him all the time,” he said. “It’s a tragedy for the whole community, as well as the family.”
Downer, who serves on town council with Zena Pendlebury, presented the reverend with an Award of Merit last year for his outstanding work in the community, specifically with the disenfranchised population.
“He helped everyone,” said the mayor. “He was just a wonderful man.”
Pendlebury also served as padre for Royal Canadian Legion Branch 80 in Midland for the past five years.
“He was a very nice fellow … one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met,” said legion president Klaus Rerup. “It’s a big loss to the legion, and a hell of a big loss to the community.”
McConnell told The Mirror she had spoken with Pendlebury’s family, and they are coping with the loss as best they can.
“Zena is an extremely strong person, and they are doing as well as can be expected at this time,” she said. “There’s so much to say (about him), but it’s difficult to put into words. He will be extremely missed.”
Visitation will be held Wednesday at St. Paul’s United Church, and a service of remembrance will take place Thursday at St. Paul’s at 1 p.m. Interment will be at Lakeview Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the St. Paul’s Refugee Fund or the Town of Midland Outreach Program.
nmillion@simcoe.com
