In Memoriam: Former Longtime Fair Havenite, Area Builder, Cliff Shaw Sr., 88

Former longtime Fair Havenite and area builder, Clifford “Cliff” Malcolm Shaw Sr., passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, April 25. He was 88.

“A man of strength, integrity, and deep devotion to his family, Cliff lived a full and meaningful life defined by hard work, generosity, and unwavering love.”

Born on Jan. 3, 1938, Cliff pursued his education at the University of Dayton before embarking on a lifelong career as a gifted builder. He was a natural craftsman whose talent and vision brought countless homes to life. In 1967, he proudly founded CMS Construction Company, followed by Ocean Garden Inc. in 1979.

“His work led him to Cooney Terrace in Fair Haven in 1977, where he built the family home and many others throughout Monmouth County. It was there that he and his beloved wife raised their family and created a lifetime of cherished memories over more than 25 years.

“After retiring from construction in 1991, Cliff continued to share his expertise as an operations manager at Builders General Supply for over 25 years, where his knowledge and leadership were deeply valued. In the later chapter of his life, Cliff spent 25 fulfilling years in Newfoundland, PA, where he established Shaw Family Farm and Nikki’s Nurseries. There, he built a classic red barn and found joy in working with his hands alongside his only son, crafting wooden figures and his cherished birdhouses.

“He took immense pride in his land and found happiness in life’s simple pleasures — hosting family pig roasts, golfing, fishing, hunting, and even snow plowing. Cliff was widely respected, admired for his generosity, and known as someone who could always be counted on …

“At the heart of Cliff’s life was his family. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather whose greatest joy came from those he held dear.

“Cliff’s legacy is one of love, craftsmanship, and quiet strength. The homes he built stand as a testament to his skill, but it is the family he nurtured and the lives he touched that will forever carry his spirit forward. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.”
Loved ones of Cliff Shaw Sr. in his obituary

Cliff was predeceased by: his parents, Clifford and Irene (Langvine) Shaw; his sister, Barbara; and his brother-in-law, Mario Sinatra Sr.

He is survived by: the love of his life and devoted wife of 66 years, Norvell Shaw (Tucci); his five children: Norvell Chick (Bryan), of Shrewsbury, Dorean Shaw (Jim), of Freehold, Corin Janosz (Ryszard), of Newfoundland, PA, Nikki Balsamo (John), of West Long Branch, and Clifford Malcolm Shaw Jr. (Agnieszka), of Newfoundland, PA.

“Cliff raised his children with boundless love, instilling in them the values of respect, strength, hard work, and the importance of family — principles that will continue to guide them.”

Nothing brought him greater pride than his seven grandchildren, who will miss him dearly: Joseph and Jayson (fiancé Peggy) Chick; Danielle, James, and Mallory Ruppert; Madilyn Janosz; and Nicholas Balsamo.

He is also survived by his sister-in-law Elaine Sinatra, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and a wide circle of lifelong and newfound friends who were touched by his kindness and warmth.

A viewing was held on Wednesday, April 29, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Frey-Fetsock Funeral Home, 201 Route 191, Village of LaAnna, Cresco, PA 18326. A mass of Christian Burial was held on Thursday, April 30, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Rita’s Catholic Church, 512 Main Street, Gouldsboro, PA 18424, followed by interment at St. Catherine’s Cemetery, where he will be honored with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Clifford M. Shaw, Sr. to the University of Notre Dame Football Department. Online: giving.nd.edu or via email at givegift@nd.edu.

— Edited obituary prepared by family