Obituary published on Legacy.com by Egan-Ryan Funeral Service - Northwest Chapel on Jan. 12, 2023.
Adrian R "Ace" Clark, age 95 of
Columbus, Ohio passed away on January 10, 2023 at home. He was born March 28, 1927 in
Columbus, Ohio to the late Arthur and Marie (Shallow) Clark. Adrian is also preceded in death by his cherished wife Norine (61 years); his brothers Tom and Joe, sister Mary, daughter Mary Seitz and son Michael. He is survived by sons Dr. Jeffrey (Julie), Greg (Patricia), Donald (Peggy) and Daniel (Denise) Clark; Grandsons, Kevin (Jennifer), Shawn, Ryan, and Michael; granddaughters, Dr. Erin, Dr. Jennifer (Jake), Dr. Katie (Sean) and Megan; great-grandchildren Kaylan, Declan and Henry, along with many nieces, nephews and dear friends. He graduated from Aquinas high school in 1945 and he later attended The Ohio State University. "Ace" was a multi-tasker doing many things at the same time and excelling at everything he set his mind to accomplish. In 1946, he joined the Army Air Corp where he completed courses in aviation medicine at Randolph Field in Texas and was then sent to medical school at Fitzsimmons General Hospital in
Denver, Colorado in 1947. He worked for The Columbus Dispatch for 44 years, during which time he served in many capacities as a station manager, traveling representative, district manager, CIS field coordinator and customer service supervisor. During his years at The Dispatch he was also the founder of The Dispatch Circulation Hall of Fame for Circulation Retirees along with starting the dinner and award ceremony for The Dispatch retires fall golf round up. During his years at the paper Adrian won many awards for his outstanding and devoted service for his hard work and positive work ethic. One award that he remembered fondly was a trip to Havana, Cuba along with several other award winners in the Circulation Department in 1957. In addition to his work at the paper he was also involved in his community as well. He held an associate position as Chairman of the Board of Revision and Board of Estimating in the City Clerk's Office, where in 1962 he was recognized for his work by then City Council President William Hermie. He was also a former member of The Shamrock Club, Flytown Club, Saint Francis Senior Citizens and the American Newspaper Guild. He also worked for twenty-five years at both Scioto Downs and Beulah Park raceways. Adrian always gave his best at whatever was placed in front of him and he was everybody's friend. "Ace" never met a stranger and was always ready to help another whenever it was needed. Adrian and Norine showed their love to each other throughout their lives together and he was a steadfast caregiver throughout her illness. His children are extremely thankful for the loving and unselfish care that he provided them through their growing years. He was each family member's number one fan, and no one doubted for a moment that they were truly loved.He was always a great Dad, and wanted to bring happiness to everyone he met with an old joke or warm smile. When he was in his 90s and health was slipping we knew that when family called he would answer the phone with such salutations as "Duffy's Tavern, Archie Speaking, Duffy ain't here" to let us know despite feeling poorly he always wanted us to feel good. For many members of the Clark Family our last fond memory will be his rendition of Feliz Navidad this past Christmas. Now whenever we hear the song we will think of him and smile. Family will receive friends 2-4 p.m. Sunday at EGAN-RYAN FUNERAL HOME NORTHWEST CHAPEL 4661 Kenny Rd. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. Monday at Our Lady of Peace Church 20 E. Dominion Blvd. Burial to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Mother Angeline McCrory Manor or the
Alzheimer's AssociationTo send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Adrian R. Clark, please visit our floral store.