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Eugene Clark Obituary
Clark, 80, is survived by a large extended family, including 17 grandchildren. He also is remembered fondly by countless former UCF students who took his classes after he completed his career as the Knights' basketball coach.
"He was a man he truly admired because he liked people, had a great sense o f humor and made you feel great," said former Sentinel columnist Jerry Greene, who covered Clark's career at UCF. "You spent an hour with Torchy and invariably you left feeling a little better than you did before. ... I don't know how many wonderful men or women people get to meet in their lives, but Torchy was one of the truly wonderful people I met."
Clark was responsible for starting UCF's basketball program in 1969. His first team played its first game before the squad even had a nickname. He led the Knights through the 1983 season, compiling a record of 274-89 (.754).
Under Clark's direction, UCF was ranked in the top 10 nationally at the Division II level for seven consecutive years and guided the Knights to six NCAA Division II Tournament appearances. He led UCF to five Sunshine State Conference championships, and in 1978 he guided UCF to the Division II Final Four. Clark was voted Sunshine State Conference Coach of the Year four times and was named the conference's coach of the decade.
"UCF played basketball in such a tiny place back when Torchy was coaching," Greene said. "However many it held, probably 1,000 at the most, would be packed for their games and a large reason for that was the show that Torchy put on. He was a delight to watch. He always wore these kind of checkered sports coats, and you'd be disappointed if at some point during the game he didn't take that sports coat off and throw it to the ground."
A native of Appleton, Wisc., Clark is also a member of the UCF Athletics Hall of Fame, Florida Sports Hall of Fame, Sunshine State Conference Hall of Fame and the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame.
Following his coaching career, Clark went back in to teaching where he was an instructor in the physical education department at UCF. In October, 2005, the basketball court inside the UCF Arena was dedicated to the former coach and now bears his name.
"He remained a teacher at UCF far longer than he was a basketball coach," Greene said. "Over the years, I talked with so many kids who had his class and they just loved him. … (Former UCF quarterback) Daunte Culpepper absolutely adored Torchy after taking his class."
Clark's survived a battle with cancer and the loss of his wife, Claire, who died in November 2007. He often wove stories about his wife and family into interviews, chats with his players and classroom lectures.
In an interview two months ago with Sentinel, Clark said of his late wife, "I expect to see her. We'll have a lot of time. My only worry is that I'll get to Heaven and find out she's married John the Baptist."
Memories and Condolences
for Eugene Clark
72 Entries
Scott Gunnerson
April 14, 2023
My last two classes at UCF were with Coach Clark, and those lessons and stories had the most impact on my life. From attention to detail, communication, passion, dedication to what´s really important, he provided a practical road map take took me farther that I would gone on my own.
Jim Vandenberg
February 11, 2014
As a Premontre student from 1962 - 1965, I remember all too well how Torchy's teams played with heart and talent and great coaching! I gained a love for HS athletics in those years that I kept throughout my life as I supported HS athletics while living in Milwaukee, Chicago, and continue to now Detroit. Torchy was a true Christian who lived his faith. Safe - Home - Torchy
Gary Landau
November 2, 2009
Greatest professor & class I ever had. My life is better because because of Torchy Clark. I'll probably never meet a person so great and unique as long as I live.
Terry Melnicoff
September 22, 2009
Mr. Clark-
I think of him often. I had realized that too much time had passed and was about to send him a letter with a picture of us sitting in his office together and one of my family. To my dismay I look on the internet to retrieve his address and find his obituary...
I have now regained my composure and I am deeply sadened by this shocking news. I will just say that he touched me in so many ways as a teacher, mentor, friend, and a coach. He made learning fun and that is the way I teach today. I didn't play for him, but in one PE class he simulated a bball practice. I was in the corner whispering to somebody(while he was talking),"this is going to be great," I said. Melnicoff, he shouted! Get up here and play full court press with these four other students. I was 20 years older than most of the class(39). He ran that press like the press I try to simulate today when I get the opportunity to coach. What an experience. The drive and the passion we were back in the 60's, 70's, and 80's again with him. After the workout I said to my buddy, "that is why he is in 5 Hall of Fames." 2 years of my adult life was spent commuting from Pt St Lucie to Orlando-- I look back on those times and smile to this day. I will miss calling him on New Years Day--his birthday. I will miss you and will pray for you...I promised you that.
You'll always be my mentor,
Terry Melnicoff
July 2, 2009
My heartfelt condolences to Torchy's family. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I feel blessed to have known your Dad and your family.
With sincere sympathies,
Robert Watson
Jim Rather
May 18, 2009
To all in the Clark family my earnest and heartfelt prayers go out to you with the sad news of the loss of your patriarch. Coach Clark was truly a wonderful man who was a teacher, a coach and a mentor to many young men whose lives he influenced. I was one such lucky soul.
Along with many other young men in Appleton, WI back in the early to mid sixties, I was fortunate enough to play on Coach Clark’s victorious Football and Basketball teams and also twice have him as a teacher in History classes. He brought a passion and commitment to everything he did both on and off the playing fields. But more than competitiveness defined Coach Clark. He was a proud husband and father and always kept his priorities in the right order...family, faith, education and finally sports.
Thanks for the many memories and life lessons you instilled in us Coach! They are lasting reminders of the great times we shared. May your soul find the eternal peace you so richly earned in the time here you shared with us.
Patti Riva
May 1, 2009
I only learned of "Coach's" passing today. What a wonderful, generous and inspiring gentleman. He and his wife were such a beautiful couple and always so concerned about others. Bo, my heart goes out to you and all of your family. May God give you comfort as you embrace loving memories.
Dan Zuleger
April 30, 2009
Its amazing the powerful and longlasting impression a teacher and coach can have. I remember Torchy's world history class at Xavier....1962. He would always find a way to bring sports into his lesson. He talked about Jim Bunning frequently and how wearing the pinstripes made him a better player...the power and pride of wearing the uniform. Coaching is teaching and teaching is coaching....one in the same..each has an impact on the student...and he impacted many. Torchy was one of the best! God bless you coach.
Rocky Bleier
April 30, 2009
Torchy's legacy is memorialized on these pages.He touched my soul and I am a better man for having had him in my life.
Jeri and Dean Siron
April 29, 2009
Dear Patty and family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you everyday. I was only lucky enough to meet your Dad a few times when he was in Morris,but I knew right away how great he was when he thought Kaislie was great at basketball! What tributes to him in all of the messages! He will always be with all of you in your hearts and memories! God Bless all of you !!
Timothy Grayson
April 29, 2009
I first met Torchy when I was a nerdy high school kid from Sanford doing an interview of Torchy for my high school newspaper and knew very little aboutathletics or basketball. I got ripped for knowing nothing of the challeges F.T.U. faced to win ball games with no money for the basketball program or anything much else. But I knew there was something special going on there and choose to go to U.C.F. to college and hung around the basketball program and got to truly know Torchy and become his friend. Thank you Torchy for the opportunity for all of this special time in my life. He was a great coach that should be recognized as an innovator for his approach to the game and as a great motivator and molder of men. I became team Manager for my four years of college and was blessed to get to know the entire Clark family. Torchy dedicated himself to his players, his family,to God and to his friends to which I am truly blessed to always call myself.
It is hard to express how much I will truly miss Torchy and Claire but
gain solice in the knowledge they they are both on heaven again together once again and looking with love on their wonderful family.God bless you.
Gene Jack
April 29, 2009
I played for Coach Clark at XHS back in the 60's and was a part of many of the wins and a couple of the losses. He was a great motivator and coach and my condolences to his family. I am glad I was able to see and talk to him when he was here for the gym dedication at XHS.
KRISTY CLARK
April 28, 2009
GRANDPA YOU WILL BE MISSED!!
I know you and grandma are the two biggest stars in the sky watching over us until we meet again. I LOVE YOU!!
Tom Neises
April 28, 2009
I am the current boy's basketball coach at Xavier High School. Torchy is well remembered here. As long as I am here, we will honor his name. I had a chance to meet Torchy once, chat and correspond a few other times. He was a great man; a legend. To his family and friends, I extend my deepest sympathies. God Bless you Torchy.
Jordan Davis
April 28, 2009
My sincerest sympathies to the family. Torchy, like with everyone else he meets, made an impact on me while I was a student at UCF. I took some electives that I never thought I would get anything out of to fill out my credit hours. But what I got was the opportunity to learn about not just what was on the syllabus, but about life, love, family and of course basketball from one of the greats. We'll miss you Torchy!
John Algreen
April 27, 2009
My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Clark family. I only had the privelege of meeting Coach Torchy Clark a few times, but can see what kind of impact he had on everyone, especially his grandchildren. I have coached all three of Bo's sons and can see how they've respected themselves and the game comes from their strong family bonds. God Bless.
Kristie and Robbie Reyes
April 27, 2009
Condolences to the Clark family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
LaMarr Lowe
April 27, 2009
My condolences to the Clark family. Torchy
send me a very nice thank you note.About
two weeks ago. The note really made me feel
good.The note really made my day.I think
Torchy made a lot of people feel good and
have a great day
April 26, 2009
My name is Marty Hehman, Gene was a wonderful man in my memeory he will never leave my thoughts, of my Uncle I can tell you this he will be missed by me and all cause he was one of many favorite people in my life. Thanks Uncle Torchy for being my uncle !!!!!
Denise Troullier
April 26, 2009
I will never forget my p.e. classes at UCF with T.C. My son will be playing basketball for UCF this fall and I wish he would have met this incredible man. He touched everyone he met!
April 26, 2009
Our condolences to the Clark family on the loss of Torchy.
I will mis sitting with Torchy at the Flagler College basketball games and the two of us questioning some of Bo's decisions during the games.
Our thoughts are with you.
Will and Connie Lewis
Gary Krueger
April 25, 2009
My condolences to Torchy's entire family. I remeber watching Torchy's basketball and football teams at Appleton Xavier when I was in grade school and then during my freshman year at XHS. They were so fun to watch. His teams were always the best prepared and coached teams. They also showed a lot of class and sportsmanship. I especially liked the way his son, Mike, played. He was a very intelligent player. My dream was to play basketball on his team, but he left after my freshman year and I never had the opportunity. He was an intense coach and his players were the same way. I was lucky to meet Coach Clark a few times when in grade school during summer basketball camps at St. Mary's . He was just as intense with the younger players as he was with the high school players, but he was also very kind and always had something positive to say to each player. I also remember when I was at UW-Oshkosh, Torchy brought his Florida Tech team to play against the Titans. I rooted for Flordia Tech, of course, and they easily defeated UWO. He could have coached any team and made it into a winner. Torchy became a legend in Appleton and at Xavier High School. There never was and probably never will be another coach like him. He was one-of-a-kind. He was also a great human being, great father, and great teacher. I'm sure he is already organizing a basketball team in Heaven.
God Bless You Torchy.
David A. Van Lieshout
April 25, 2009
The Clark Family
You have my condolences on the loss of your father and grandpa. Coach Clark was an inspiration for the first generation of Xavier students. "To teach is to touch a life forever." is truly the impact that your dad had. I was in his classes and a BB manager in my sophomore year. Being from Kimberly, Coach and I always had a good rivalry over whether the Hawks could beat the Papermakers(Hawks). He always joked with me over my lack of height 5'7" at a time when most Kimberly kids were 6' or better. He often shared his anecdote of driving through Kimberly where every home had a hoop on the garage and would say, "Van how come I get another guard when the rest of you Dutchmen are giants?"
Coach inspired me to become a teacher and a coach. He had the best stories and trivia and called me 'stats' when I kept up with him. After your mom died he sent me a handwritten note thanking me for my card of condolence.
I will make a donation to the Jeffrey David Van Lieshout Scholarship at Xavier in memory of Coach Clark.
Keep The Faith!
Skip Abrams
April 24, 2009
The Clark Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of sorrow. Let your memories of all the great times together pull you through. I am inspired by the stories and comments that have been written. However, you our are the ones that know the true greatness of Torchy Clark. I know that he will continue to inspire others as you continue on with your daily life. God Bless.
Don Rowe
April 24, 2009
Mike, Tom, Bo, Bob and Patty:
As a young coach first cutting my teeth back in the '60s, I had two fantastics mentors - coach Joe Sterling at Seminole Junior College and your Dad. Everything that I ever learned about the game of basketball, I learned from these two great coaches. More importantly, these two coaching legends also taught me many other things outside the game of basketball which have been a source of inspiration for me throughout the years.
Having just lost my father this past February, I know you're all filled with sorrow at his passing right now. But be rest assured, he's now as happy as he's ever been for two very important reasons: 1) he is with his Lord and Saviour; and 2) he has been united with your wonderful mother Claire. Shortly after your Mom died, Torchy wrote me a beautiful letter which I would like to share with you. In it, he said the following: "On Nov. 4, Claire passed to heaven. Claire fell and all her organs shut down - liver, kidney, brain, etc. Five doctors said it was hopeless and what they all wanted was to put Claire down. I said 'No,' and wanted Jesus and more time. After two weeks, Claire came back 100% for 10 GREAT DAYS! Then she talked and was perfect. The doctors called her the miracle woman. Father Welch sang her favorite song, On Top of Old Smokey, and she got all choked up. But after those 10 great days, Claire got that horrible infection (septic). Don, we were married 57 years. I loved her those 57 years just like I did when we fell in love at Marquette in 1949-50. Our family has been strong and by the grace of God, I'm doing OK. But Claire was a beautiful, special, special person. I never knew a better person than Clairest. Claire always made me think I was No. 1. Ha! Everybody knew she was the gem. True joke: Claire never bragged. We are riding in our car and I'm driving. I said, 'Claire, you had to be the best looking girl Marquette ever had.' Claire said: 'Torchy, you're in the wrong lane and you blinker is on.'"
As you can see, your Dad was a very special person and I will miss him greatly. I wish I could tell him once again how much he meant to me, but I can't, so I'm telling the five of you because I know that you know you had the best parents a family could ask for.
Ryan Gillis
April 24, 2009
My condolences to the Clark family. During my time at UCF I think I took every class Torchy ever taught. He was a great man and and I am a better one because of him. He will never be forgotten. God Bless!
April 24, 2009
We were fortunate enough to get to know Torchy, Claire and the entire Clark family during the last 6 years when my husband became Torchy and Claire's neighbor. We know how deeply Torchy missed Claire over the last year and a half and are happy for him that he can be with her again. While we now feel sorrow that they are no longer here with us on earth, we look forward to being neighbors again someday. Miss you both! ~Kellye Shoemaker, Mel Baker and Bosco
Ron Ribaric
April 24, 2009
I am very sorry for your loss. Torchy was a great person that taught me a great deal. He will be missed by many of us
I am out of town and will not be at the service. I will keep you in my prayers
Curtis L. Lewis, II
April 24, 2009
My heart and prayers go out to the Clark Family. May God be with you.
Flagler College Basketball 2002-2004
April 24, 2009
Dear Patty and Family,
We are so sorry about the loss of your Dad. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. You are so blessed to have had such a wonderful Mom and Dad.
Love,
Pam and Rusty Foster
Buster Harvey
April 24, 2009
Bo and the Clark family---- May God bless durning these times.Coach Clark was special man who touched so many people in a postive way! We all know he is in a much better place !
Janice Matley
April 24, 2009
My condolences to the Clark family. Torchy was a wonderful man who touched many lives and will be greatly missed.
Ronald Thow
April 24, 2009
Torchy had a profound impact on my life as a college student athlete. I always looked forward to his class. He was colorful, brutally honest and geniune. A wonderful man that God put on this earth to touch our lives.
Karen Weatherwax
April 24, 2009
Patty & Family, We are so sorry for the loss of your dad. Our greatest Prayers are with you. He is your other Angel. Love Karen Wxwax-Wilson & Family
Ron Johnson
April 24, 2009
HI PATTY: I wish every athlete in America regardless of age could have Coach Clark for one season or even one class! How lucky some of us have been and how lucky you are for having him as your Dad!...let's make sure we all do the right thing and pass on some "Torchy" to our youth - he would want us to!
April 24, 2009
Condolences to the Clark Family. I first met your Dad as a little boy, going to one of his basketball camps. At St. Charles, I remember Patty always being very nice to me and also enjoyed Bo's company while playing softball for the team as a teenager. My parents (Joan & Tom Tennyson)send warm regards also.
David Giammarino BMHS '82, Ocoee, Fl.
pat fowler farris
April 24, 2009
Patty and family, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your dad (and mom last year) What a great man loved by so many.
Pat Fowler Farris BMHS '79
Drew Clark
April 24, 2009
Torchy was both a legendary coach and more importantly a legendary human being. His faith and devotion to the Catholic church is unrivaled. Growing up as his grandson, he always stressed the importance of faith and the role that it should play in life. I thank him for always guiding me in the right direction and because of that faith I know that he is in a better place.
As far as family goes, Torchy was always the center of attention when all the grandchildren were together; whether he was telling us stories, throwing us balls to catch as we jumped into the pool, or "interviewing" a stuffed animal to see who it liked and didn't like. Those are all times we will cherish forever and never forget. We'll miss you grandpa.
Lee Rabas
April 24, 2009
To the Clark family my heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Your father and grandfather was a special person who touched many lives. In my case more than he probably ever knew.
I had the good fortune of getting to know Coach Clark during my last two years as the coach at Xavier H.S. Mark Miller had an idea for a 40th year reunion of the 1963 State Championship team. We did just that on February 1, 2003. I did quite a bit of research for that night as I exchanged phone calls and e-mails with many of the team members, and phone calls and hand written letters with Coach Clark.
The more information I gathered the fonder I grew of Gene "Torchy" Clark. Not only as a teacher and coach, but as a person and man. It was a blessing to learn about what Coach Clark meant to the players and students of Xavier High School. They spoke with great reverence about a man who taught them and motivated them to succeed.
I'm so glad that a year later, in 2004, we renamed the gym Gene "Torchy" Clark Gymnasium in his honor. It was one of many fond memories I have of my time at XHS.
I keep three letters Coach Clark sent to me during that time within reach of the keyboard I now type on. One of them came shortly after I resigned from Xavier in the spring of 2004. Its arrival caught me off guard, but the contents were of great comfort to me back then, and still are today.
Coach Clark you probably had no idea how much that letter meant to me, or how I cherished the time I spent learning about you through the memories of your players and students, and the time I was able to spend with you when we renamed the XHS gym. I'm honored to have known you and coached in the gym you built. God Bless you for a life well lived.
Kevin Tiller
April 23, 2009
Bo,
You and your family are in our prayers!!
YOur Basketball Clock Operator
Frank McGinnis
April 23, 2009
Coach was one of the most important people that I had the good fortune of knowing in my life. He was always an inspiration not only to me but I believe to everyone he touched in his life. Ironically, I believe even his great suffering that he experienced in his later years through the pain of cancer and the loss of his wife served as a form of inspiration to all. Even then he never lost faith.
He was one of those great men that make a significant difference in the course of individuals' lives and in the course of humanity.
He will be missed by more people than you can imagine.
Thanks Coach for everything.
April 23, 2009
Patty and family,my prayers are with you and may God continue to give you strength.
Dondrea Clark Stevens
Jim Crews
April 23, 2009
Patty, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Toby Waters
April 23, 2009
Torchy Clark..The Man, The Myth, The Legend
I attended UCF from '90-93 and was priviledged to be enrolled in Coaching Theory and Team Sports classes. Through these classes I learned real life situational coaching strategies through his stories that I apply today as a coach. He asked everyone the first day of class to get out the "assigned text book" of the course. Then he said "you know what I think of this?" and walked over to the trash and threw it away. The class roared, and I knew then this guy was a special instructor/coach. He made you WANT to come to class because you were afraid you might miss something really good and he was an absolute wealth of knowledge. He had a certain knack for having different vocabulary with the athletes and just students taking the class and could differentiate between the two. But he always built you up reguardless of who you were, you walked out a stronger person at the end of the term.I am good friends with two of his sons, Mike and Bob which we went through some PE classes together. Torchy's office door was always open to talk about anything for advice..class, sports, life. I still have the picture in my sports room with Torchy,Claire, and I standing outside of the old Kelseys Pizza restaurant after I was presented the PE Student of the Year Award which he signed for me. I am saddened he is gone, but I know he is in a better place. To most he was either a coach, professor, or advisor. I was proud to call him all of these things...but most of all, my friend.
Bill Beekman
April 23, 2009
Torchy's gift to FTU was the passion he created between that era's student body and the university, whether on the court or in the classroom - a passion that has lasted our entire lifetimes. Out of little, he created a huge fanbase.
I choose to celebrate a life very well lived. Godspeed, Torchy and thanks for all of the great times!
Chris Wolters
April 23, 2009
Bo, Patty, and the rest of the Clark Family,
So sorry to hear about your loss. The memories my brother and I share watching the Rollins-FTU matchups will never be forgotten. I pray that God brings all of you peace and comfort in this moment of sorrow. God Bless.
Jim Oates
April 23, 2009
I had the honor and pleasure of having Torchy for both a coach and teacher at Xavier High School in the late 60s. The stories and memories are still vivid. I was lucky enough to connect with him at our 25th year reunion and hear some of the old stories again. Torchy will certainly be missed and never be forgotten. He was a great man. My condolences go out to his family.
Herky Cush
April 23, 2009
Orlando and all of Central Florida lost a treasure. I often felt like I was getting paid for fun when ever I had the chance to include Torchy or his sons in any story I had the honor to write at the Sanford Herald or Orlando Sentinel.
I'm thinking john the Baptist had better move up his wedding plans.
Michael Camarata
April 23, 2009
In the early 1970s, O'do was even more crushingly boring and bland than it is today. Mr. Clark's teams, along with His spirited sideline tirades, provided highly entertaining temporary relief - especially the memorable battles against Rollins.
As one who is also parentless, I extend My sympathy and best wishes to the Family.
Robert Park
April 23, 2009
Torchy, what I would give to sit in one of your classes and just listen to one of your stories. You were one of a kind and this world will miss you. RIP...
Ryan Budnik
April 23, 2009
We have lost one of the most amazing men I have ever met in my whole life. Not only was he my grandfather, but a great friend. He was an amazing athletic coach as everyone knows, but also one of the best coaches in the game of life as well. I will never forget the many things he has taught me over the years, and will certainly never forget him as a person. He is in a better place now, and is watching over all of us.
Chris Short
April 23, 2009
Coach Clack inspired me to get into coaching. while I was attending UCF he used to meet with me every Friday morning to talk hoops. I had the pleasure of staying in contact with Coach writing letters every year. He always responded. He will be missed. We'll miss you coach!
Joe Niland
April 23, 2009
Bo, I am sorry to hear about your loss. I only met your Dad one time but, watched him coach his teams many times. They were always so very well coached and disciplined. I know how special he was for you and I am praying for you and your family. We have lost a great man.
Cary Fields
April 23, 2009
Coach inspired me in many ways. Mostly in life lessions which I mostly ignored until I matured. I often tell young people the things he told us with the hope that they will listen. He helped me get into sports officiating 35 years ago and often attended games I worked. I'm a better person because of Coach and very sadden by his passing.
Calvin Lingelbach
April 23, 2009
I Love Coach Clark.
He is an Angel. He knew things that others didn't. The things he has taught us: basketball is just a game, Family is the most important, Faith is above all. Coach walked the talk. I learned so much from him. Being random and not completing a sentence was one of them. There is not a day goes by that I am not reminded of something we experienced together.
The basketball and the games and the stories never grow old.
The Clark family is quite the game tape. Coaches watch video to really see what happened during games. The Clark legacy is examplified through Mike, Tom, Bo, Bob and Patty. They are a beautiful group. Coach's grandchildren fit right into the mold. Coach took great interest in my family. He knew them. I am so honored.
Through all the hoops and relationships, he put his Faith above all. He practiced what he preached. I'll never forget him taking me to a mass, somewhere in Spain, at 6 in the morning. and not understanding a single spanish word.
Coach never said much to us in the locker room after we won. When we did lose, he was there for us. He knew we would be listening then.
Losing Coach is hard.
I know he is in a better place. He is looking for "pressers" right now on that golden floor. I can hear him in that locker room. He is telling us that our time here is only temporary. He wants us to be part of his team again. I hope he is saving a uniform for me.
God Bless Coach.
God Bless Claire.
God Bless the Clark family and help them get through this challenging time.
Karen Wxwax-Wilson
April 23, 2009
Patty & Family, My family and I send our regards. Patty girl you know now you have 2 angels looking over you. Take care my friend. God Bless! Karen & Family
Maria Cao-Laughlin (BMHS '77)
April 22, 2009
Dear Bob and Patty
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this sad time.
I remember watching your Dad coach the UCF/Rollins games during our high school and college years.
God Bless,
Kevin Meisel
April 22, 2009
Dear Clark Family,
Your father has gone home to be with your mom. Reading the beautiful tributes to your dad reinforces what you already know, he touched the lives of many!
Take Care & God Bless All,
Kevin Meisel
Paul Bathen
April 22, 2009
I didn't know Torchy, but in high school I knew Bob (in my class) and Bo. Parents live on through their children, and children reflect the values taught by their parents. Torchy and Mrs. Clark can be proud they raised fine children as evidenced by Bob and Bo!
Paul Bathen
Gale Martin
April 22, 2009
I first met Coach on June 6, 1975, when I graduated from Bishop Moore. From that day on, I knew what an amazing man he was. He not only was a coach but a cheerleader for all his players and students. No matter what career you chose or life path you would take, he would always be proud of you and encourage you to keep reaching for the stars. He always looked at the good in people no matter what the situation. The ripple of Coach's loss will be felt not just because of what he did for FTU/UCF basketball but more because of how he touched people's lives. Here's to you, Coach.
Tony Salerno
April 22, 2009
I have known Torchy since the day I was born, never has there been anyone I've known so devoted to his faith in Christ, Family and Career. Torchy will be missed here, but I know he is rejoicing with Claire and Christ. Too his dying day, he was an exemplary man and taught on a daily basis, whether he knew it or not. Always loved me for who I was, not just my achievements, but what I stood for in life. Alot is because of him and my father as well. I will forever miss our phone conversations at the stroke of midnight on new years every year. That was an impressive streak as well, that lasted 30 years. This world has lost a friend, but the heavens have gained an angel, fly high Torchy you have definitely earned your wings.
Mark Freeman
April 22, 2009
I'm lucky that I get to attend and enjoy a basketball program that Torchy helped build. UCF Basketball is where it is because of Torchy. Thanks for everything Coach!
Dave Bachynski
April 22, 2009
I broadcast games on WFTU/WUCF-FM from 1979-82 and have so many great memories of Torchy especially since the bench was right next to our broadcast location. I will never forget him. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
John Anderson
April 22, 2009
My thoughts are with you. Torchy was truly a legend and I was always proud to tell people I knew him and his family. When I would see him he always remembered that I was Drew and Kristy's teacher. I know you will all miss him terribly.
Yvan Kelly
April 22, 2009
There are people in our lives to whom we can point and say - if not for that person, where would I be? For me, Torchy Clark is at the top of that list. He was tough, but always caring; he was competitive, but always humble. He would have rather spent his time helping his players and students than promoting himself to advance his career. Success followed him because he was a leader and an innovator, but people followed him because he loved them. Those who knew him, who played for him, who coached with him, who studied under him, were all influenced by him in some profound way. The sports world may remember him as a basketball genius, with his full-court press and fast breaking style of play, but those of us who really knew him lose more today than just simply our coach. May we be his legacy for the next generation.
Rolando Perez
April 22, 2009
I was fortunate enough to have Torchy as an instructor during my years as a FTU-UCF student, and will never forget him.
God Bless you Coach
Tony Eveland
April 22, 2009
I traveled Central Florida watching Torchy Clark's basketball teams. I never met him but I feel like I knew him. This is a sad day.
April 22, 2009
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts and prayers of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Kevin McNamara
April 22, 2009
I was a student during the "Torchy" years and watched FTU play in a number of "temporary home" gyms. God Speed Coach Clark.
I was fortunate to win a UCF basketball and have Coach Clark autograph it.
April 22, 2009
Tom Cubit
April 22, 2009
A great, great catholic man. He certainly gave a great direction and sense of being for all.
God Bless You Coach
Brian Fritz
April 22, 2009
I was lucky enough to have Torchy as an instructor while at UCF. I always remember the passion he had in teaching and sharing some great stories from his coaching days. That was my favorite class from college and I cherish how much fun he made it. God bless you Torchy - you made everything that much more interesting.
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How to support Eugene's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
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Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Eugene Clark 's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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