Clifford Allen Rein

Clifford Allen Rein, age 91, of White Oak, PA, peacefully entered the Light on Sunday, June 8, 2025.

Born August 13, 1933, in Minneapolis, MN, he was the son of Clara (Knotch) and Albert Rein. During his early childhood, the family moved to Minot, ND, where Cliff grew up and met the love of his life, Cora (Coons-Wirtz), while attending Minot State University. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering and began a distinguished career with Westinghouse in their nuclear division.

Cliff’s work took him to Chalk River, Ontario, Canada, where he spent 14 years advancing nuclear energy research. While there, he joined Camp Petawawa’s Royal Canadian Artillery unit, learned to scuba dive, and served on the Search and Rescue Team.

In 1970, he transferred to the Idaho National Engineering Laboratories, and two years later, to Bettis Atomic Laboratory in Pittsburgh, PA. There, he dedicated the remainder of his career to supporting the U.S. Navy’s nuclear-powered submarine program until his retirement.

Curious, adventurous, and always hands-on, Cliff embraced life fully. He participated in North Dakota’s final wild buffalo hunt, and enjoyed fishing, hunting, rock-hounding, jewelry making, and repairing anything he could. His love of the outdoors led to many hiking, canoeing, and whitewater rafting adventures.

In retirement, he generously shared his mechanical talents with the Mon Yough River Trail group, becoming the go-to expert for tractors, chainsaws, and more.

Above all, Cliff was devoted to his family. His quiet strength, gentle spirit, and enduring love were the foundation of their lives. He also had a deep affection for dogs, and one was always by his side throughout his illness.

Cliff is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 64 years, Cora; his children Richard (Colleen) of Evergreen, CO; Monica (Lawrence) of East Boothbay, ME; and Ramona (Kevin) of White Oak, PA; and his brother, Clayton, of Minot, ND.

Should friends desire, memorial donations may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation, https://www.parkinson.org; or the Mon Yough River Trail Council, https://thebostontrail.com/donate-to-the-mytc

Arrangements were cared for by Strifflers of White Oak Cremation and Mortuary Services, Inc., 1100 Lincoln Way, White Oak, PA 15131 (Sue Striffler Galaski, supervisor, 412-678-6177).

To share a memory or condolence, please visit www.strifflerfuneralhomes.com