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Eugene Clark Obituary
In life, Eugene Clark observed the three D's: dance, drama and divas. He started early: Roberta Flack was his music teacher in Washington, D.C., during the 1960's. He could sing like Jennifer Holliday in the musical "Dreamgirls," he could emote like Norma Desmond in "Sunset Boulevard" and he danced "like Tina Turner," said Larry Courtney, Mr. Clark's partner for the last 13 years. "And he had legs almost as good."
For the last four years, the couple lived in a two-story rooftop apartment on 42nd Street, with a sweeping view of the neon canyons and the bustle of Times Square. It was not that Mr. Clark did not enjoy his work at Aon Corporation, where he was an administrative assistant, but he loved his life away from the office.
He adored "Miss Saigon" and "Les Miserables," cooked southern-style fried cabbage, and collected Waterford crystal decanters and vases.
And then, there was what they called "the Terrace." Mr. Clark, 47, converted the apartment's 10-foot-by-24-foot concrete-slab patio into a thriving terrace garden, laying in lattice work and a fountain. He potted red hibiscus plants, geraniums in hanging baskets, miniature cedar trees, and yellow and burgundy hollyhocks.
From the terrace, guests at their annual New Year's Eve parties could watch the ball drop in Times Square.
Mr. Courtney, who has three children from when he was married, said they came to love Mr. Clark as a family member. Mr. Courtney's daughter, Heather, 28, joined them on a gay rights march in Washington in 1993, carrying a sign that read, "I'm proud of my gay dad and my new step- queen."
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Del Newberry
October 20, 2021
To see his smiling face here, I can tell that Eugene was a man who loved life. The day the world lost him and so many others will never be forgotten. Best wished to his many friends and his family, with much love from Texas
Jacqui Hicks
September 13, 2021
Twenty years ago, I read Eugene Clark’s obituary on the Aon remembrance page. I didn’t know him, but his story and smile struck something in me. I’ve always kept a space in my heart for him as a personal, human connection to the September 11 horror. In January 2020, I made a long-delayed, first visit to NYC, and went to the 9/11 memorial to find his name on the wall. It broke my heart to touch his name, and I shed tears then just as I do today for this innocent and so much loved man that I never met. Rest easy, Eugene. I remember you today and every day.
Cindy Roe
September 4, 2021
Remembering Eugene on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...
Del Newberry
December 7, 2020
To hear about your gardening skills on the terrace and your kindness to friends at your New Year's parties brought a smile to my face. I pray today for special blessings on your family and friends as they remember great times together. We will never forget.
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Stacey Coffman
September 11, 2020
We will never forget you
Wendy Boor
September 10, 2019
Gene,
You will always be remembered for your kind spirit and smiling eyes.
Celete Reynolds
September 10, 2018
Hi Eugene, you are still in my thoughts and prayers
Gigi
September 8, 2018
Just read your story in a 9/11 book and wanted to light a candle for the beautiful soul we lost. Burn brightly, your memory shall live on
Judy
March 12, 2018
I don't know you. I just clicked on your name on the memorial website because your picture Made me smile. I light a candle for you.
Rev. Jill McCrory
September 15, 2015
Each year I remember you Gene. Those days in 1972 in the halls of Woodrow Wilson. I will always remember you singing "If I were a rich man" in the stairway as we changed classes. You were indeed rich in many ways, rich in talent, rich in relationships, rich in love. Larry I don't know you, but thank you for being such a good life partner to Gene. God bless you and your family. Gene would have laughed his you-know-what off to know that I became a Baptist pastor, after all the antics we pulled in high school. And it was partly through my friendship with him that I became an lgbt advocate. Thank you Gene for your friendship and being part of our crazy group back at Wilson.
manny fernandez
September 11, 2015
i don't have to wait until today to think of you, gene. throughout the year your laughter and smile often visit my brain. thank you for always being my bud and big brother @ gralla/miller freeman. i miss you and love you very much.
Douglas Vines
May 31, 2015
My memories of you at Wilmington are of a young man trying his best to be happy and accepted. I will always remember that conversation we had one night in your room. I want to say that even though so many years have passed, I am so glad that you found the love and acceptance you hoped for. God bless you
September 16, 2014
thank you for getting me up every 9/11 right before they pronounce your name every year I know is you, love you always
Jill (wolf) McCrory
September 10, 2014
Love you Gene - I have such fond memories of you in the halls of Woodrow Wilson High School in 1972. You will always be remembered.
May 19, 2014
The creator who gave life can certainly restore life, please read Act 24:15 for lasting comfort.
September 11, 2013
never met you but fill like I know you. djs friend and care taker. Diane Marshall
Deloris Clark
September 11, 2013
I really miss my nephew he was a loving and caring personDeloris
September 11, 2013
Remember
Remember me when I am gone away,
Gone far away into the silent land;
When you can no more hold me by the hand,
Nor I half turn to go yet turning stay.
Remember me when no more day by day
You tell me of our future that you plann'd:
Only remember me; you understand
It will be late to counsel then or pray.
Yet if you should forget me for a while
And afterwards remember, do not grieve:
For if the darkness and corruption leave
A vestige of the thoughts that once I had,
Better by far you should forget and smile
Than that you should remember and be sad.
By Christina Rossetti
The Poetry Foundation
Celeste Reynolds
September 11, 2012
Hi Eugene I can't believe 11 years has passed.
God Bless
carmelo montalvo
June 19, 2012
this sunday "Fathers Day" I visited the 9/11 memorial and felt even closer to you as I found your name engraved on the metal, I will always remember you as Happy and wonderful as the last time I layed eyes on you. You will always be remembered my friend God Bless You Carmelo
Gerald Carter
September 11, 2011
Gene...I remember. I remember our first week at Wilmington when you, Steve, Cecil and I first met. I remember all of us becoming officers for Austin-Pickett dorm residents. I remember the meetings of CBS, the football games, the partying and just hanging on the block in Pyle Center.
Gene, I remember the summer you, Waverly and I spent in Atlanta. Weren't we a crew? What a wonderful summer.
I remember when we returned that Fall to school a private conversation you initiated with me. Through tears you told me you were Gay. You cried because you thought that would end our friendship. That was the day our friendship was re-affirmed. We were friends and nothing else mattered.
I remember the sadness I felt when you told me you were transferring to Ohio State. That was the first loss I experienced with you. I remember visiting you at OSU and you were so vibrant and happy.
I was devastated to learn you were one of the victims of such a horrible tragedy. Once again, a huge feeling of loss.
Gene, you will always be remembered and loved by many.
Gene, I remember. I will carry our bond of friendship forever.
Celeste
September 9, 2011
We at Aon had a memorial service today for the 9/11.
God Bless
sabrina
September 11, 2010
May that beautiful smile be shining down everyday on your partner and your loved ones you left behind, im sure its that smile that helps them everyday, I hope your partner and family can one day look up to the heavens and let YOU see their smiles as they remember you.
Doug Abraham
May 18, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
Doug Abraham
May 18, 2008
Happy Birthday!!!
Garry Clark, Jr.
July 26, 2007
Uncle Eugene,
I have and will always remember your generosity and love. Alot of my memories of you and Larry were so old but I do recall the day you sent me plan tickets so that I could get back to college in Nebraska and I remember the many beautiful stories my father would tell about your zest for learning and love of life. I will miss you always and will forever wish that I had a chance to really get to know you. Love Always.
Garry Jr.
Doug Abraham
May 18, 2007
Happy Birthday!!!
Yetty Cinta Suradja
May 7, 2007
Dearest Eugene "Cakes" Clark,
You were my soulmate back in the day (Lincoln and Wilson). The bike rides we took and our sometimes awful piano playing will always be etched in my heart. I can still hear your angelic voice singing in the halls after Chamber Choir "...O Magnum..."
Gene, wherever you are.. you are magnificent!
Much love,
Yetty
Kristine
October 23, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
September 10, 2006
In remembrance....
Lori (Liorah) Lappin
September 9, 2006
May our American family never forget Eugene or the gift of love he gave to so many. May his memory be blessed and those who love him be comforted.
Doris Leslie
September 11, 2003
Dear Eugene:
I remember you with your beautiful smile and always laughing at me. As I watch your name being read today by children whose hearts are breaking, I want to wish your Loved ones, strength from God to bear such a loss. RIP, Eugene, until......
Rose Anna & Bob Miller
May 15, 2003
Dearest Gene: We know, We know, you would have been upset at our inability to actually sit down and write to you. It has been a very hard, long process getting to the point the we were able to get to this place in our hearts. You were life as anyone could be. You were also a pain in the neck, as no one could be. In your life, you brought us immeasurable happiness and in your death equally immeasurable sadness.
We know that you are looking over Larry, helping him try to move on with his life. Now that confirmation has been made, please, please keep sitting on his shoulder so that he will know you are there always, even through his tears.
Our memories of the trips we made together are locked in our hearts. When we look at the pictures (you are in most of them), your smile and exuberance are always shining through.
The day you and Larry came into our lives brought us family that we had no idea existed, but had no idea how our lives would completely change. You spun us in circles with your love, laughter and smile.
We will love you always.
Larry Courtney
May 6, 2003
May 6, 2003
Dear Gene,
You have come home to me and all of those who love you. I pick up your ashes today and we will remember you on your birthday, May 18th. I know that you picked the day and time that you were identified, waiting for me to make arrangements for your final resting place. I will take you with me to Oregon in August and lay you to rest among my family, at my side. It is so hard to say goodby so I will only say, wait for me and one day we will be together again.
All my love,
Larry
Richard Johnson
May 1, 2003
May 1, 2003
This morning I read in the newspaper of the identification of Gene's remains from the WTC. I hope that this will help Larry and Gene's family(ies) to reach some closure. The love I have seen expressed speaks eloquently of Gene's life. May those memories hold and embrace you and eventually wipe away the tears. His persona will remain with you.
Dick Johnson
Plymouth MA
Larry Courtney
February 21, 2003
I visit this site from time to time and am always amazed at the amount of love that can be captured in a guest book. I know Eugene is aware of every entry and sends a blessing to each and every one. This picture was taken in Plymouth MA just before we went on a whale watch. I hope everyone who has made an entry in the book re-reads it from time to time. God bless you all.
Larry
Diane Tierney-Suffren
December 31, 2002
I just learned of Gene's death in the Wilmington College Links. I was shocked and saddened. I attended Wilmington College with Gene in the early 70's and remember all the crazy times with Matt, Gloria, Duffy and Gene. Gene could make you laugh even on the darkest days. He was always in search of fun and adventure. I always remember after he left WC and wanted to go to another school and returned and asked WC administrators for funds to attend. Although I hadn't seen him in almost 30 years, he always remained part of my wonderful memories of WC. Reading about his life makes me happy to know he lived it like he started in his youth--vibrant and zestfully.
Penny Fortson
September 16, 2002
I worked at Aon in the World Trade Center for a very short period of time. I didn't develop many relationships but I have to say that it would have been my greatest pleasure to have met Eugene. Although I did not get to meet Eugene while working at Aon, I had the pleasure of meeting him by hearing his story on September 11, 2002. It was wonderful to hear such a happy story but sad to see how much his presence and love is missed.
David Bursky
September 11, 2002
I wish I had known Eugene and his family, the love that is evident from family members and friends shall continue forever. I don't know your beliefs, but I feel another angel is among us. My thoughts are with everyone who knew him.
Love,
David
Stacey Coffman
September 11, 2002
I am an Aon employee in the Grand Rapids Michigan office. We held a moment of silence for the Aon employees that were lost to us one year ago today. We then pulled a name out of a basket. Each name was a fallen member of the Aon family. My name was Gene Clark. I did not know Gene. I came on this site to see if I could learn something about him.
What I learned was that this wonderful man was loved by many. I also learned that we probably would have been friends. We shared many of the same interests. We both loved Les Mis. It is also my favorite musical. We both loved gardening. While I have never tried to build a garden on top of a New York building, I have a garden at my home in the country. We both were Administrative Assistants for Aon. We both loved drama and shared a love for all of the arts.
I cried for this man. I cried for the family and friends that have lost him. I cried for myself that I never got to know this wonderful person. I never got to have that beautiful smile directed towards me. I never got to meet him and share a musical together. I know I would have treasured him, as the rest of you have.
To Larry: Please be comforted with the time you got to love him. I am sure he is singing to you in Heaven.
God bless all of you.
Becky Haines
September 11, 2002
I work at Wilmington College in Wilmington, Ohio in the Fine Arts Department. I knew Gene when he was a student at Wilmington College. I only found out yesterday that Gene was one of the 9/11 victims. When someone asked me yesterday if I knew Gene Clark I answered immediately. "Sure I do." Then I was told he died in the World Trade Center. There was a thud in my gut. I now knew someone who died there. I didn't like the feeling. May his soul, wild as it was, rest in peace.
Gregory Jackson
September 10, 2002
Dearest Gene,
My heart is filled with the deepest sadness of the loss of your life on this earth. My heart is filled with the sweetest memories of your smile and endearing love. Javier told me I would never meet anyone like you and how right he was. You were always a joy to be around and I always felt welcomed and loved in your presence (and in Larry's). I remember the last time I saw you...there you were singing, dancing and smiling. I think you had on someone's heels too (but that was you - always the showman, the host, the friend, the partner, the giver, the gift of our lives).
I read some of the wonderful tributes to you and I was especially touched and brought to tears by the heartfelt words of Heather, Ian and Larry. While I feel such sorrow I am overwhelmed with joy to know that LOVE can exist no matter what differences or obstacles humans can put it it's way.
The day you and Larry came into my life it was forever changed for the better. I promise to try and always be a good friend to/for Larry. I know you miss Larry as he misses you. Larry is a wonderful person (I love him dearly) and my door shall forever be open to him and to you if you should ever decide to come by and say hello.
I will always remember "toot-toot, pig's feet" it shall always be our anthem. I miss you so much my dear, dear friend. I will always carry your smile and love with me always.
Thank you for the memories and the laughter and for the courage to be who you were! You're finally free my friend!
My deepest regards to all family and friends who knew and loved Gene. Thank you for sharing him with me. My prayers and thoughts are with you. May God Bless and watch over you. Please know that Gene was very special and he lives on in the heart and memories of the lives that he's touched.
To my dear friend Larry, thank you for sharing Gene with me and for taking such good care of him while he was here on earth. I know each day is a new step, whenever you need a hand to hold or a shoulder to lean on please call me.
Love,
Gregory
Kathryn Clark
September 10, 2002
Hello, my name is Kathryn. I know that you have recently lost Eugene Clark. I am very sorry for you and I know what you are going through. I have recently lost a loved one of mine and I know how you feel. I am praying for you and everyone else that lost a loved one every day. I just wanted to let you know that I am thinking of you. I hope you have a good life in the future!
Sincerely,
Kathryn Clark
Robert, Nancy, Dustin and Laura Sutton
September 8, 2002
In memory of Eugene Clark
We did not know Eugene, but my husband is a brother of Cam Sutton who works for Aon. I came across this on the internet and wanted to express our deepest sympathy. I have thought of all the lives lost that day and especially of the ones from my brother-in-laws office and it still hurts deeply. Our deepest deepest sympathy to the family.
Nancy Sutton
Phillip Russo
September 4, 2002
Dear Gene,
When I look downtown or remember that tragic day, I think of how much was taken from so many of us. But I especially think of those who have lost a loved one and my heart breaks for their lose.
I'll never forget you Gene, and I'll never stop praying that God watches over Larry and your family.
Thanks for enriching my life,
Phil
Patricia Herbert
June 26, 2002
Mr. Clark, I met Gene while working at Aon we would meet in the morning for our breakfast smoke and then in the afternoon. We both enjoyed the outside vendors selling all types of plants. I will always remember Gene for his laugh and knowledge of the latest Broadway Plays. I miss him daily it is hard to write this for I am in tears because I will never see Gene again. But I know God, Jesus, Allah and the ancestors will take care of my friends soul. He can plant his garden in heaven.
Love Patricia Herbert
delia jackson
April 28, 2002
I never met Gene Clark. But I mourn the loss of his his friends and family. I will learn some of Gene's favorite songs. And I must work on my dance. And I will tend my flowers. As I sing and dance and garden, I will think of Gene's witness and courage. It must carry on.
All God's love, Delia
Michael Iezzi
April 23, 2002
Father we entrust our brother Eugene to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
Ian Courtney
March 24, 2002
Gene,
I miss you. Your humble grace, wisdom and brilliance still astounds me. The respect and admiration I have for you will forever be ingrained in my heart and mind. I wish people who didn't know you could understand what it meant to be Gene Clark. You had this innate ability to see life as it really is, even in the face of tragedy and despair. You have kept me in check uncountable times. You have always surprised me with your kindness, honesty, and class. I wish they knew you Gene. The thing that tears me up the most is that when people die, the personality, experiences, and wisdom are lost to the people to whom they have never met. To people who are reading this now, I tell you that if you had the honor of meeting Gene you would be a better person for it. I will always love you Gene. You will forever touch me with your smile. Your son, Ian
March 11, 2002
Gene,
6 months today since you were killed. I admired your kindness and mostly your generosity for anyone who crossed your path. You were good to Larry and you were really beautiful. I know you are dancing now. Your spirit is still so strong with us all.
Larry Courtney
March 1, 2002
My dearest Eugene,
I was finally able to look at the guest book today and my heart is broken anew. Heather's loving note to you just reinforces what I know of you.
You know that you will never be out of my heart. I will love you forever. You know that I am trying to get on with my life, as I know you would have done, and usually it seems to be going pretty well. Today,however my darling, it is not and I miss you with all my heart.
Dance with the angels, sing with Lady Day, and watch over me, just as you always have.
I love you, babe, Larry
Heather Courtney
February 28, 2002
My dearest Gene... if you can see my tears, and how I struggle with the loss of you-- I am sure you would say, "oh! Just suck it up, girl!" I do try, for you. You may only be aware, now, in death how much you have touched my life. You certainly got more than you bargained for when you began a courtship with my dad. Three scraggly step-children with whom you didn't know what to do!! Well, newsflash! What were we to make of Gene Clark?? I will tell you, you were mine from the beginning, though, no matter how much you kicked and screamed. My heart fully soaked you up as a full member of my family and my very own dear, dear friend. Our bond was unlike anything I have ever known, or ever will. My heart still holds your spirit close and my ears still ring with your voice "reading me for points". My eyes still envision you dancing and mouthing the words to Jennifer Holiday singing, "And I am Telling You." You are near by, and that, my dear step-queen, I know to be true.
Byron Daudelin
January 30, 2002
Larry,
What a beautiful tribute to your beloved, Gene. I love you.
Byron
J J
January 23, 2002
Eugene....while looking at the photos, I came across your picture which just sort of took me. I didn't know you personally but you have striking resemblence of a friend of mine who passed away some years back. He had that same friendly smile and personality that they said you had. I know if you and him were to meet each other you would be very good friends. You see my friend (Reggie) loved the things you loved also. If you run into him up there would you tell him I said "Hello"
JJ
Chicago,Il
Teresa Jahn
January 6, 2002
What a warm and friendly smile Eugene has in the picture you have shared with the world. Such a smile can only come from a heart to match. We are very sorry for your loss of Eugene. May his life and love live on in those who love him. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
December 25, 2001
MAY GOD BLESS EUGENE CLARK AND MAY
HE REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS
ANGELS...GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND
FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND GOD
BLESS NEW YORK AND ITS GOOD PEOPLE
MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01
Anonymous
December 18, 2001
Our hearts reach out to Mr. Clark's partner and children. Cherish your memories and hold his spirit close.
Cecil Brown
December 6, 2001
While I've lost several dear friends at AON in this tragedy, most of the people I met living in New York during my career.
I met Gene while in College (Wilmington College, Wilmington,Ohio) when I was a junior and he was a doe-eyed freshman.
As one who finds himself regularly in the throes of six degress of separation, I'm sad that my career freinds at AON could not hear embarrassing stories told as only Gene could tell them of our times at college.
I know his bubbly sprit lives on as he coaxes higher notes and better dance steps from all the angels.
Work it boy!
Doris Leslie
November 29, 2001
When I first met Eugene, he thought I was crazy. He was among a group of people that I was telling how I ended up going to the wrong funeral sometime ago and Eugene never lets me forget it. Well, Eugene, I wont forget you either and it was a sad day when I saw your smiling face on the website. Rest in Peace until we meet again.
Later then!
donna himelfarb
November 20, 2001
You said it was hopeless in high school, Eugene, but I finally did learn how to waltz. I'll always remember your smiling eyes and the brilliantly forged absence notes you wrote for me. dance on.
In memory of Gene
Carrie Enfield
November 12, 2001
Gene..for years you were my loyal employee, but most of all you were my loyal friend. Your smile could launch a million smiles and your humor and easy nature could always keep me whole when the world felt like it was unraveling. I will forever be grateful for just having you in my life and I will miss you dearly my friend. Go with God. I love you. CARRIE
Debbie Wilson
November 7, 2001
With heartfelt sympathy.
I will never forget this sad and tragic loss.
kimberley hess
November 6, 2001
May God Bless you and keep you from any harm now.
kimberley hess
Cambridge
Peoria, IL
Nov. 6, 2001
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