Search by Name

Search by Name

Sheldon Clark Obituary

Sheldon Oakley Clark Sheldon Oakley Clark, loving husband and father, devoted educator and mentor, avid outdoor sportsman, military history aficionado and patriotic veteran, passed from this life to the next on Thursday, January 13, 2005. Born in Mattoon, IL on May 15, 1927 to Golda Oakley and Sheldon C. Clark, he moved to Phoenix in 1937. Sheldon was a 1945 graduate of Phoenix Union High School. While in high school he was a member of the JrROTC and marksmanship team. It was during this time that he developed his life long passion for shooting sports. Immediately following graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Force serving as a weather observer at various bases in the U.S. and in the South Pacific. Sheldon returned to Phoenix to attend Arizona State College (ASU) where he received his undergraduate degree in elementary education in 1951. After graduation he began a 46 year career with the Creighton Elementary School District. He taught at Lafayette (now Kennedy) school until 1957, during which time he received his Masters in Education, also from ASC. In 1957 he was promoted to Assistant Principal. In 1965 he transferred in the same position to Creighton School. In 1967 he became Principal of Monte Vista School, serving until his initial retirement in 1987. Following his retirement, he joined the District administrative staff as Evaluation Systems Facilitator for the Career Ladder program, a position he held until 1997. During his career as an educator, Sheldon also filled numerous mentoring roles for children, including Little League and girls' softball coach, Scoutmaster and District Commissioner, and Girl Scout supporter. One of his favorite mentorship activities was that of Hunter Safety Instructor through which he trained hundreds of Valley youth in safe hunting and shooting sports. He was a lifetime member of NRA. Sheldon was active in numerous professional and community endeavors including President of the Elementary Section of the Arizona School Administrators Association, Trustee of First Congregational UCC Church, and founding member and President of the Phoenix Sundown Rotary Club. As a lover of reading and military history, he was a freelance book reviewer for the Arizona Republic, and the author of several articles on Arizona history. He really enjoyed hiking and camping in the Arizona backcountry. He is survived by his loving wife Fran Clark; brother Ralph T. (Mary Mae) Bryan; sons W. Mark (Stacy) Clark of Tucson, Jeff (Jackie) Clark, Christopher (Carol) Clark; daughter Nancy (Bruce) Steele of Altadena, CA; stepdaughters Kelly Jo and Laura Zahtila of Calistoga, CA; 11 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. He was an incredibly kind, generous and loving man who will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched. A memorial service will be held at Paradise Valley United Methodist Church, 4455 East Lincoln Dr., on Saturday, February 5th at 11:00 A.M. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in Sheldon's name to the Nature Conservancy - Arizona Chapter, 7500 N. Dreamy Draw Drive, Phoenix, AZ 85020.

Click here to view the obituary as it appeared in print.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic on Jan. 30, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Sheldon Clark

Sponsored by Nancy Lee Clark Steele.

Not sure what to say?





Warren

January 8, 2025

Still remembered,as my heart holds to family.

Warren Bryan

June 29, 2024

I often think back to years growing up and have such fond memories of Uncle Bud. I miss those years, and I will miss the connection he brought to my family.

Barry Thiem

February 22, 2005

I remember growing up in Phoenix in the late 60's, early 70's stopping by the Clark's house always getting a cheerful Hello with so much wisdom to offer and genuine concern for people. A true honor to know such a man.

Keith Clark

February 3, 2005

Sheldon - older cousin Shelly. It was great to get to know him later in life and share our IL heritage from different perspectives. So sorry for your loss. God Bless.

Keith

Mary Lou Carson

February 1, 2005

Sheldon and I were friends during high school. after that, I left home and never again lived in Phoenix. Sheldon and Franand I connected again late in our lives, and I treasured that friendship. He was truly a gentle man, and left a mark on this world.

Catherine Clark

January 31, 2005

HEARTFELT SYMPATHY

Sheldon and Chris in Christopher Creek

January 27, 2005

William Bratt

January 27, 2005

Sheldon was a dear and true friend that I will sincerely miss. Sheldon was my principal as I taught at Monte Vista most of my teaching career. He was always there for me if I needed him. My wife Marion and I always enjoyed getting together with Sheldon and Fran for lunch and at their annual Christmas open house. We send our sincere condolences to Fran and to Fran and Sheldon's entire family. We will all miss him



Sincerely,

Bill Bratt

William Bratt

January 27, 2005

Sheldon was a true friend thatI will miss very much. He was principal for most of my 22 years as a teacher at Monte Vista and also I worked 5 years with him on my early retirement. He was always there for me. Marion and I always enjoyed getting together with Sheldon and Fran at their annual Christmas open house. Sheldon was a kind and gentle person that was always willing to talk with me. Marion and I want to extend our heartfelt condolences to Fran's and Sheldon's entire family.



Sincerely,

Bill Bratt

CHRIS CLARK

January 26, 2005

MY FATHER SHELDON CLARK WAS A KIND AND CARING PERSON I LOVED MY FATHER VERY MUCH I WAS SAD TO SEE HIM GO I WILL MISS HIM TERRIBLY.

IT WON'T BE THE SAME WITH OUT HIM.

Mary Perrin

January 26, 2005

Our family was blessed to have known Sheldon for 30+ years. Mark & Mitch went to Monte Vista all through grade & junior high school under Sheldon. I worked there for 15 years & Jerry for two. We both continued in the district in different positions. Jerry always considered Sheldon more a friend than a boss, they often went hunting together.



We stayed in touch after we all left Monte Vista. He was the “Gentle Giant” of Monte Vista! We all loved Sheldon & will miss his smile.



Our sincerest thoughts go out to his family.



Jerry, Mary, Mark & Mitch Perrin

Anita (Spellman) Kelley

January 24, 2005

As I think back over the vast number of administrators that I have worked for during my 39 years in the classroom, I remember Sheldon with respect and fondness. He hired me as the home ec teacher at Monte Vista in 1978. He was a kind and caring person. He was a principal who most often had his door open and you felt comfortable dropping in to visit with him or to discuss a classroom problem. I always enjoyed talking with him when he would be on the Creighton campus during the Career Ladder aspect of his career.

My sincere regards to each member of the family. Hold on to your memories for no one dies who is remembered. May it comfort you when you remember and know that many other people will remember Sheldon too. He will live on.

SHEL CLARK, BELOVED HUSBAND

January 23, 2005

Josie Allen

January 21, 2005

Sheldon Clark wore many hats - husband, father, grandfather, #1 teacher and principal, scoutmaster, role model, and friend.



He was the glue that held Monte Vista School together - students, teachers, parents - we were a family.



Thank you Sheldon for always being there in your kind, understanding, patient way. Your smile and laugh always made one feel special! You are missed but you will never be forgotten!



Love, Josie Allen & Family

Gwen Worthington

January 21, 2005

I was so saddened to learn about Sheldon's passing. When I came to Creighton in 1989 he was such a wonderful support to me as a "green" administrator. We shared a section of rooms with Career Ladder and I had an opportunity to meet with him daily. His warmth, wit and charm were always a joy. One of my fondest memories was when we would sit together in Sup's Council and he would lean over to me everytime I was going to open my mouth and whisper -"keep your mouth shut, you'll get more done." It was a constsnt reminder. I loved following his lead as he observed, always with a knowing grin, that whatever it was would work itself out. I am so sorry for your family's loss. He has always had a special place in my heart. Gwen Worthington

Bertha Young

January 21, 2005

I worked for Sheldon as an aide and our childen went to MV school. He was wonderful with kids. I am so glad he was part of our lives. He is truly missed.

John Paul Parker

January 20, 2005

I am saddened to hear the news. Mr. Clark was my pricipal, and he was a great role model. Tough but sweet, he represented the best tradition of public service.

Kathy Tegarden

January 20, 2005

When I came into the Creighton District in 1990, Sheldon was working in the career ladder office and did the evaluator's training. I learned so much from his experience. He presented with a wonderful sense of humor and quick wit. The administrator retreats with Sheldon will always be a treasured memory. He loved to play along in our team challenges! And he was always a great resource for us "green" administrators. I will treasure my memories and pray that his family will be able to do the same. My deepest sympathy for your loss of a beloved husband and father.

Chris Bloom

January 20, 2005

It was such a privilege to work for Sheldon with Career Ladder. Sheldon was a charming man who loved conversation. He met life with quick wit and intelligence and I am blessed to have known him as my friend.

January 19, 2005

Charlotte Boyle

January 19, 2005

The students and staff in Creighton School District were fortunate to have Sheldon Clark as a caring, capable educator in our District for many years. Hired in 1951 as a teacher at Lafayette School, Sheldon also served as an assistant principal at several schools and then as a principal at Monte Vista from 1967-87. After his retirement, until 1997, he served the district as a facilitator for Career Ladder. His caring smile and genuine interest in all with whom he came into contact will never be forgotten. He made a difference!

Charlotte Boyle,

Superintendent

Creighton School District

Phyllis Levinthal

January 16, 2005

I never got to meet Sheldon Clark,

but I would like to think he was a lot like his son Chris. I see his son as a caring and kind person .

This is my image of Sheldon.

Rest in Peace.

Juli Groff

January 15, 2005

I have such fond memories of Mr. Clark - running up to him when I was 6-years-old and giving him a big hug, watching him ride his motorcycle, and enjoying his hearty laugh. I am so saddened to hear about his passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. I feel very fortunate to have known him!



Juli (Wright) Groff

Monte Vista Class of 1979

clark wright

January 15, 2005

My wife and I were pleased and proud to have as Principal of Monte Vista School Mr. Sheldon Clark. We always knew our children were in good hands with him at the helm. He was always kind, calm and extremely pleasant. He will be missed, but remembered.

Clark Wright

January 14, 2005

I am an alumnus of Monte Vista Elementary School, Class of '72, and I am saddened by the news of Mr. Clark's passing. Please accept my kindest regards and best wishes, especially during this difficult time. Sincerely, Clark

Rick and John and Dan Goldman, Finkelstein, McCauley

January 14, 2005

Sorry to hear about the loss of Sheldon Clark (Christopher's father)He was a very nice guy,he was a pleasant guy to know.



your friends,

John Finkelstein, Rick Goldman, Dan McCauley

Showing 1 - 26 of 26 results

Make a Donation
in Sheldon Clark's name

Memorial Events
for Sheldon Clark

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Sheldon'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.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
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.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
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.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Sheldon Clark's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more