Gene "Torchy" Clark

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.

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

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.

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...

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

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...

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.

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...

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.