Kathleen Clark

Kathleen Clark of Ojai, beloved wife of Robert, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2010. She was 81.

Kathleen is survived by husband, Robert, of Ojai, and four children, Steven Michael (Leah), Carolyn Ann, David James (Jackie), and Daniel Guy, and six grandchildren, Jason, Christian, Jonah, Shawn, Wyatt, and Julia. She was preceded in death by brothers, James L. Farrell and Richard C. Farrell.

Kathleen grew up in Oak Park, Ill., and her family moved to Los Angeles when Kathleen was a teenager. She attended Corvallis High School and Immaculate Heart High School in Los Angeles, and in 1951 she graduated from Mount St. Mary's College. Kathleen and Bob married in 1954 and settled in Los Angeles.

Kathleen delighted in sharing her warmth, wit, and great sense of humor with her family and her many friends. When her children had grown Kathleen dedicated herself to helping others, volunteering at the Suicide Prevention Center and as a counselor at Bel Air Presbyterian Church. She taught public school for a time. She earned her Masters Degree in Educational Psychology at California State University, Northridge, and she applied her knowledge to continued volunteer work at her church. She always wanted to extend a helping hand to anyone in need.

Bob and Kathleen moved to Ojai in 1989, and became active in Ojai Presbyterian Church. Kathleen was a member of P.E.O. Sisterhood, Chapter QP, and she and Bob were members of the Mariners' Club. Through their 56 years of marriage, Bob and Kathleen remained "nuts about each other." They crossed the country on motor home trips, visiting 41 states and spending time with extended family along the way. Kathleen was an avid reader and an accomplished, creative photographer. Kathleen also loved music, and she imparted that appreciation to her children.

Visitation is scheduled from 1 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 28, at Ted Mayr Funeral Home, 3150 Loma Vista Rd., Ventura. A Memorial Service will take place at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 29, at Ojai Presbyterian Church, with a reception following at Stockham Hall, at the church. The family gives heartfelt thanks to Deirdre Daly and her wonderful staff at Autumn Years for the love and care they showed to our Kathleen. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to HELP of Ojai.