John Clarke

Dr. John W. Clarke, a beloved husband, a devoted father,  caring grandpa, and an accomplished scholar, passed away on September 14, 2025, at the age of 73.

Born in Emporia, Kansas, on September 18, 1951, to Dr. Robert F. and Annetta Elaine Clarke, John pursued a life shaped by intellectual curiosity and academic excellence. While in high school, he lettered in football, basketball, and track, and served as President of the Student/Faculty Advisory Council, President of the Art Club, President of the National Honor Society, and President of his class. He was also a dedicated member of the Student Council all four years until he graduated in 1969.

John earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Emporia State University in 1972, followed by a Master of Science in Biology in 1973 from the same university, supported by several grants, scholarships, and fellowships. He continued his studies in biology at Texas Tech University, where he received his Ph.D. in Zoology in 1976. He went on to enjoy a distinguished career in the environmental sciences, working for his own consulting company, then Boeing, and spending the last 20 years of his career with SMC Technologies.

Outside of his academic and professional pursuits, John was a man of great passion and warmth. He was a lifelong Kansas City Chiefs fan, cheering on his team through every season with unwavering loyalty. A devoted birdwatcher, he found joy in the quiet moments of nature-and never went anywhere without his trusty pair of binoculars.

He is survived by his wife of the home, Lou Clarke, his four daughters: Jessica Clarke and Lacy Jobe, from his first marriage, and Tara Lewis and Kristi Clarke, from his second marriage to Lou Clarke, his wife of 40 years. His daughters and wife remember him for his wisdom, quiet humor, enjoyment of nature and the love he gave them throughout their lives.

He also leaves behind his older sister, Dr. Linda Clarke; sister-in-law, Brandy; four grandchildren, Ben, Cooper, Aidan, and Maddy; and his son-in-law, Danny.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at The Cozine Life Events Center, with snacks and visiting after.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the National Audubon Society, The Wichita Cancer Foundation, or Emporia State University, in his memory.

Memorials to:
National Audubon Society225 Varick St
New York, NY 10014
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Wichita Cancer Foundation
1035 N. Emporia, Ste 195
Wichita, KS 67214
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Emporia State University
1 Kellogg Cir
Emporia, KS 66801