Cliff was born on October 20, 1966 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

He grew up on a small acreage in North West Edmonton with his parents, Stanley and Audrey Kondratiuk, his older brother Ken and the family dog – a Chow named Bear. 

Cliff obtained a B.Sc. in Electrical Engineering at the University of Alberta. He was an intelligent and hardworking student whose high GPA earned him a coveted spot in the engineering co-op program. Shortly after graduating, he moved to Vancouver to work in the tech industry where he could enjoy the beautiful BC coast and its mild climate. 

Working mainly as a software engineer for various companies, he contributed to many innovative and ground-breaking technologies. Ultimately, Cliff ended up in video game development working for Electronic Arts where his easy going yet hardworking character made him an invaluable team member.

Cliff was determined to always live within walking distance to the ocean. For the last many years, he loved living close to Kitsilano Beach.  An avid foodie, he enjoyed grilling King crab legs, steak, ribs, fish & potatoes or other exotic meats he picked up from Granville Island or Hopcott Farms on his BBQ.

When he wasn’t working or golfing, you’d find him relaxing on his rooftop deck, enjoying spectacular mountain and beach views.

Cliff was one of my closest and longest standing friends. We met in university over 35 years ago and remained closely connected ever since. Don't let the ‘Born-to-Party’ or ‘Ready-to-Rock’ appearance on his student ID (included in the photo gallery) fool you, as he proved to be one of the smartest and hardworking students that I knew.

Cliff moved to Vancouver right after finishing university. I followed shortly after him and we lived together for 6 years. He was the ideal roommate. Considerate, quiet, employed, responsible AND extremely chill. I cannot recall a single time when we ever got on each other’s nerves - or at least I can say he never got on mine! Really, who can say that about any long term roommate?

Included in my many great memories of Cliff are the numerous Radiohead and Tragically Hip shows we saw, summer evening volleyball with the Black Box folk at Jericho Beach, boat excursions up and down Howe Sound, and poker nights with the usual crew (Rob, Darren, Jessica & Jen).

Over the last many years I had the pleasure of being Cliff's main golf-mate, which became the source of many amazing memories. I enjoyed watching his game improve to the point where he was able to shoot in the 70s. I was amazed with the consistency of his driver and fairway woods - using his 'aim way left and cut it back into the middle' approach. I’d also marvel at the giant pelts (divots) his modest frame could peel away from mother earth - intentional or not!

Cliff had a unique dry wit and genuine, easy going personality. He never had an unkind word to say about anyone. He was simply a great person, great friend, and a rare soul whom I will miss more than I can ever express.

Golf was Cliff’s main passion in life. He’d golf whenever, wherever & however many times he could. Nothing would keep him from getting in 18 - 72 holes each week!

He’d bring his clubs with him whenever he travelled for work and loved planning golf vacation trips. His favourite destination was Wailea in Maui. He loved playing so much that it was not uncommon for him play 27 - 36 holes every day.

Cliff’s dedication to the sport did not go unrewarded. Besides successfully achieving his goal of breaking 80 (which he did numerous times), he amassed an unheard number of golf’s most sacred and rare achievements with 3 ‘Hole in Ones’ and 1 ‘Albatross’.