Former Hampton Selectman Dies at 69

Clifton “Jack” Pratt, 69, loving husband, devoted grandfather and loyal friend passed away peacefully in his sleep at Hyder Family Hospice House in Dover on Friday, March 7, 2014 in the company of his wife, Kate. 

Born in Portsmouth, June 17 1944 he was the son of the late Clifton J. and Ruth E. (Moir) Pratt. 

Cliff worked many years as a machinist for the Gould Shawmut / Mersen formerly of Newburyport. 

Cliff was a member of First Congregational church in Hampton where he had served from time to time as Deacon, Warden, Sunday school superintendent, member of the 350th anniversary committee and Santa. He served the Town on the Board of Selectmen and Planning Board. He was “Boss Judge” for the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival and “Pig Master” for the Hampton Historical Society pig roast, every Labor Day weekend. 

A lifelong resident of Hampton, Cliff was the 11th generation of his family to reside here. Cliff was easily recognized by his trademark overalls. He ventured through life at his own pace. You know this if you were ever caught in traffic behind him on Route 1. His favorite place in the world was his garden. He enjoyed planting pumpkins every year with his grandkids. He spent many hours just sitting and watching his garden grow, battling occasionally against a certain woodchuck. 

Cliff’s forefathers were tasked with caring for the Town Clock, formerly housed at Odd Fellows Hall. He felt a personal commitment to ensure its preservation for future generations and dedicated many hours and efforts to the cause. 

He is survived by his wife Kate (Katzenbach) Pratt, son William “Whit” Hansen, daughter-in-law Amy (Griffin) Hansen, grandchildren Jack, Edgar and Abby Hansen all of Hampton and one sister Laura Dunn of Litchfield, Ct. 
We should all take a lesson from Cliff. Take it slow and take the time watch your garden grow. 

Relatives and friends may call from 3 to 5 PM on Saturday, March 15, 2014 at the Remick & Gendron Funeral Home-Crematory, 811 Lafayette Road, Hampton. A memorial service is being planned for April 26th at the First Congregational Church, 127 Winnacunnet Road, Hampton 

It is our wish and commitment to follow through with Cliff’s effort to ensure the Town Clock’s restoration and installation is completed. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to: Town Clock Fund, c/o Hampton Rec. Dept. at 100 Winnacunnet Road, Hampton, NH 03842.