George Clifton ‘Clif’ Zackey, Jr., 77,
Marine, Businessman, Avid Sportsman
Clif, as he was known during his life, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 22, 2023, in Stuart, Fla. He was 77 and had struggled with emphysema for many years.
He leaves behind his wife of 55 years, Maureen Crilley Zackey, and his son, George Clifton Zackey, III, nicknamed Clipper.
Born to Dorothy and George Clifton Zackey, Sr. in Philadelphia, he grew up in Westfield, attending Lincoln and Edison Schools and graduating from Westfield High in 1966. An excellent baseball player, he played for many years for the Westfield Merchants. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, finishing as a sergeant.
An expert marksman and an avid sportsman, he hunted with bow and arrow, rifle and shotgun. He loved fishing and practiced the tag and release method for sailfish once he moved to Florida. After working for Merck Sharpe & Dome, he started in the employment business. He founded his headhunting business, Keyton Associates, in 1979, headquartered in Summit. He retired in 1987 when the family moved to Florida. The light he shone on all he encountered has been extinguished but his memory will be lovingly remembered. Per his request, there will not be funeral services. Should you wish to remember him, please make a donation to any of the animal shelters/ humane societies. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled in Florida at a later date.
January 11, 2024