Peter L. Clarke

CLARKE Peter L. Clarke, age 83, died Wednesday, April 12, 2006, at Norwalk Hospital. Born in Stamford, Mr. Clarke was a Westport resident for the past 50 years. Mr. Clarke was a devoted Art educator and professional artist, having earned two Bachelor degreePs in art and art education from the Rhode Island School of Design, a Master's degree in art education from the University of Bridgeport, and a Certificate of Advanced Studies from Fairfield University. As a teacher in the Fairfield Public School system for more than 30 years, Mr. Clarke taught Art at Andrew Warde High School and was the town Art Coordinator for Kindergarten through 12th grade. He was also a member of the Silvermine Guild of Artists and until recently held private painting classes in his Westport studio. After retiring from public education in 1985, Mr. Clarke enjoyed painting in watercolors, oils and acrylics. He could often be spotted painting local scenes in his trademark broad-brimmed straw hat. For many years, Clarke moored his boat at the Compo Boat Basin in Westport and took pleasure in exploring Long Island Sound. He also enjoyed traveling, music and loved to dance. Mr. Clarke was predeceased by his wife, Joyce Nylen Clarke in 1988 and is survived by his companion of many years, Andrea Turner of Westport. He had three children: Alison McCarthy of Ridgefield, Carin Barbour of Bridgeport and Peter Brian Clarke of Fairfield. In addition, Mr. Clarke was a grandfather of five, and is also survived by three nieces and two nephews. There are no calling hours; however the family will hold a memorial reception at Mr. Clarke's Westport home on Saturday, April 22, between the hours of 2 and 5 p.m. The Harding Funeral Home, is in charge of arrangements for a private burial. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be given to the Whittingham Cancer Center at Norwalk Hospital, 24 Steven St., Norwalk CT 06856.