Rick Cluff Obituary

John Richard Cluff (June 27, 1950 – July 2, 2024), a revered Canadian journalist and long-time host of CBC Radio Vancouver’s morning program The Early Edition, passed away at the age of 74. Cluff’s distinguished career in journalism, especially in sports reporting, and his contributions to Canadian broadcasting, have left an indelible mark on the industry.

Early Life and Education

Rick Cluff was born in Toronto, Ontario, on June 27, 1950. His father, a former Air Force radio host, performer, and record producer, significantly influenced Cluff’s early life. Despite facing challenges, including being expelled from school in Grade 10, Cluff pursued higher education as a mature student. He attended Seneca College and the University of Western Ontario, where he gained experience working on student radio stations. His passion for journalism led him to graduate school and eventually to a position with CBC.

Career

Cluff began his career at CBC in 1976, focusing on sports journalism. His extensive coverage included eight Olympic Games and five Commonwealth Games. Notably, during the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Cluff reported for two hours on the Centennial Olympic Park bombing with minimal preparation, showcasing his exceptional skills and dedication.

In 1997, Cluff was invited to host The Early Edition in Vancouver, a position he held for two decades until his retirement in 2018. His tenure as a host was marked by his genuine rapport with listeners and his ability to make guests feel at ease. He was also one of the few journalists allowed to enter Moscow and Prague during the World Hockey Championships amid the Cold War, highlighting his prominence in sports journalism.

In 1999, Cluff was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame, a testament to his significant contributions to sports journalism. His dedication to the field was further recognized in 2018 when he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Canadian Radio Television Digital News Association.

Personal Challenges and Legacy

In June 2017, Cluff underwent open-heart surgery due to hereditary heart disease. Despite these health challenges, he continued to inspire and support his colleagues and community until his retirement. His successor, Stephen Quinn, took over in December 2017.

Rick Cluff is remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering support for those around him. Laura Palmer, a former colleague and executive producer of The Early Edition, described him as “a very kind, generous, sweet human being” who made everyone feel comfortable and valued.