Clifton E. Chandler

OSWEGO – -Clifton E. Chandler, 92, of Oswego, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Oswego, he was the son of the late Edison Russell and Mary Natoli Chandler.

Clifton was a beloved teacher and Department Chairman of Industrial Arts at Chittenango High School, where he dedicated 31 years to educating and inspiring his students. He also taught Driver’s Education. He was a proud veteran, having served in the Army National Guard.

A natural athlete, during high school, Clifton was a standout quarterback for his football team, earning numerous accolades for his athletic accomplishments. In addition to football, he competed in track, baseball, and wrestling. He was also an excellent swimmer. On many occasions as a young man, he would swim along the breakwall to the lighthouse, where he would stop to enjoy a cup of coffee with the lighthouse keeper before swimming back

He continued his athletic interests throughout his life and shared in his enjoyment of biking, boating, camping, croquet, fishing, gardening, golf, swimming, tennis, and woodworking with his family and friends. While living in Florida, Clifton became a talented Sunfish sailor and participated in numerous competitions and races.

One of Clifton’s favorite traditions began when he attended the Indianapolis 500 with his father. He never missed a year and created many cherished memories. In the spirit of being with his family, he started the tradition of family camping trips to Cape Cod that lasted for over 30 years.

He married Kathleen Lavery and together they had four children, Kathleen (Mark) DiGennaro, Karen (Bill) Reeser, Clifton (Christine) Chandler, and Karla (Jerry) McCord. He later married Edith Ensworth, mother to three children, Raye Ann, Marty (Kate) Halstead, and Todd (Kiri) Halstead. His fourteen grandchildren are Rose, Nicholas, Peter, Cole, Clayton, Kyle, Monique, Ashley, Derek, Daniel, Mara, Garrett, Tomiko and Mei-Lin. His eleven great grandchildren are Clifton, Wren, Phoenix, Aeneas, Casey, Adele, Noah, Lily, Luna, August and Wesley.

In addition to his parents, Clifton was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 46 years, Edith M. Ensworth Chandler, who passed away in 2023, and his sister, Marion Wamby.

Family and friends are invited to attend funeral services at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at Nelson Funeral Home. Burial will follow at St. Paul Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the caring guidance of Nelson Funeral Home.