Robert David "Bob" Clark

Robert "Bob" David Clark

Robert "Bob" David Clark, 78, of Oregon, Ohio, passed away on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, with Jean, his wife of 58 years, and much-loved daughters, Melissa and Amy, by his side. Bob was born in Toledo, Ohio, on April 26, 1947, to Franklin and Elizabeth (Watkins) Clark.

A distinguished alumni and graduate of Waite High School (Class of 1965), he credited the East Toledo community for his foundation in his love of learning and mentorship. Bob's decision to become a teacher, and later, a mentor of educators, was rooted in his experiences at Waite. He dedicated his life to community service and social justice.

He obtained his Bachelor of Education from the University of Toledo, where he later earned his Master's Degrees in Counseling and Administration and Supervision. Bob began his teaching career in Bowling Green. In 1972, he joined Toledo Public Schools as an Occupational Work Coordinator. This began a lifetime of service to TPS, where he worked as an Assistant Principal, Principal, School Improvement Leader, and Assistant Superintendent. He was also a Board member and Treasurer for TAAP (TPS Administrative Union), and he served as the Treasurer for the Committee for Schools. In retirement, he served as a Consultant for the Urban Leadership Development Program.

Bob's belief was that education is the greatest equalizer in society, and that one should never forget where they came from. He dedicated his lifetime to celebrating the people of Toledo and creating opportunities for the youth in our city. He was recognized and awarded for his steadfast service to our community and schools.

With his longtime friend, Larry Michaels, he co-authored Morrison R. Waite High School A Celebration of 100 Years, and also with Larry, Mike Childers, Tom Shaw, he co-authored The Streets of Toledo. He was a proud supporter of The East Toledo Historical Society, Morrison R. Waite Alumni Association, Waite Inc, and the East Toledo Family Center.

As much as he loved the East Side, Bob loved being a graduate of UT. He supported the Rockets in all their athletic endeavors, going to as many away games as home games. He and Jean even attended a winning basketball game against Villanova on their wedding day. He served on many committees for the University and was the President of Downtown Coaches, was honored with the distinction of 12th Man, and most recently, he supported the 1923 society.

Bob was a prolific reader, always reading two books at a time ---one fiction and one nonfiction. His enthusiasm for reading and learning in general was contagious to his family. Bob's love of history and historical things resulted in great adventures around the country and the world. He was an amazingly talented wood worker, building everything from dollhouses to dens. He also handcrafted model ships and structures from historical research.

To his family and to all who knew him, Bob leaves a legacy. He has taught us to engage full-heartedly in causes that make the world a better place. By his example, we learn to be empathetic, to build compromise, and to seek solutions where we see problems. His curiosity and his zest for life show us how important it is to take chances, try new things, and to appreciate the people who got us to where we are. He inspired us to give back.

Bob is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jean; daughters, Melissa (Scott) Lodge, Amy (Mathew) Charles; grandsons, Cameron (Carmen) Lodge, Ethan Lodge; sister, Kristine Clark; brother, Timothy (Pamela) Clark; sister-in-law, Cheryl Clark; his beloved Yorkie, "Rocky the Rocket"; feisty feline, Sparkle; and many special nieces, nephews and loving family members. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Audrey Gilliam; and brothers, William and Jamie Clark.

Family and friends may visit Eggleston Meinert & Pavley Funeral Home, Oregon Chapel, 440 S. Coy Rd., Oregon, Ohio 43616, on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 2:00 p.m-8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held in the funeral home, on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow in Fort Meigs Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy in Bob's name may be directed to Morrison R. Waite Alumni Association Scholarship Fund.

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