Jack Clark

Jack Clark, formerly of Huntington, Indiana, died in his home in Casa Grande, Arizona on Saturday. At his side were his wife of 76 years, Miriam Smith Clark and their family. Jack was born in Huntington to Rufus and Dale Clark. Jack met Miriam at the skating rink in Huntington when they were both sixteen years old. He says he could tell if a girl liked him by how hard she squeezed his hand during a couple skate. He said Miriam squeezed really tight and never let go! They were married on Aug. 24, 1950 in a small ceremony at the Methodist Church in Andrews, In. He was deeply in love with his wife until his final breath and never missed an opportunity to tuck her into bed, serenade her and kiss her goodnight. In his last days his favorite place was by her side with her hand held tight in his.

He was very faithful to God and attended church every Sunday. He was an avid follower of Billy Graham and liked to tell the story of when he was saved during one of his sermons.

Jack and Miriam had two sons, Rick Clark of Albuquerque, NM and Bill Clark of Andrews, In, five grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. He had a passion for travel and adventure. He and his wife Miriam extensively travelled the US, Canada and Mexico in their camper. When asked what the secret to a long life is he said they avoided stress by living life on their own terms. They provided a home for themselves, worked when they wanted and travelled when they wanted.

Miriam often says that Jack is always singing, laughing or talking because he doesn't know how to be quiet or sit still. He truly was a Jack of all trades. There were always multiple projects in the works. He was never afraid to try new building techniques and if he didn't have quite what he needed to make a project come together...well then he'd wing it. His projects were always functional, if not always beautiful. Over the years he tried his hand at woodworking, welding, scuba diving and brass casting as well as many concrete projects. In his lifetime Jack built two homes for his family. He liked to say that when he and Miriam turn 100 he's going to build a new house and start another family. Miriam just rolled her eyes and shook her head, his jokes were never ending.

Jack had a big sweet tooth. He was always snacking on something. His favorite drinks were Pepsi and anything chocolate. He would say that life is too short and he'll eat what he wants. True to his nature, his last meal was homemade chocolate pudding.

Jack and Miriam had a large friend group they spent time with almost every morning. His social life was very important to him. He was always going somewhere. He said recently that he can't do all his errands in one day because then he won't have anything to do tomorrow.

Jack was preceded in death by...well, by almost everyone he knew. Jack was 92 and still very active. Way to go, Jack!

A memorial service will be held when Miriam is ready. Friends and family will be notified. To contact the family please email serenity.clark.1980@gmail.com.