Wayne Ray Clark

Obituary for Wayne Ray Clark
February 27, 1958 - October 29, 2025

Wayne Ray Clark, 67, of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2025, surrounded by love. Born on February 27, 1958, in Tucson, Arizona, Wayne spent his early years in the desert city he cherished, where he developed lifelong passions and talents that shaped the man he became.

As a young man, Wayne attended high school in Tucson, where he studied Karate and learned the art of cooking through a special culinary program known as The Feast Program. Nicknamed "The Duke" by friends and family for his admiration of John Wayne, Wayne embodied the same warmth, strength, and integrity as his namesake.

Wayne's greatest adventure began when he met the love of his life, Liz Clark. Together they built a beautiful life in Tucson, sharing laughter, hard work, and countless memories. Eight years ago, they moved to Okmulgee, Oklahoma, to enjoy their well-earned retirement and the peaceful life they created together.

A master mechanic by trade, Wayne took great pride in his work, often found under the hood of a car, bringing engines back to life. His hands were those of a craftsman-whether repairing cars, tending to his garden, or preparing a home-cooked meal. He had a deep love for cooking and delighted in preparing meals for those he loved.

Wayne's creativity and curiosity extended to his hobbies. He and Liz loved antiquing and filling their home with treasures that told stories. Wayne especially enjoyed collecting dragon and wizard statues, scale model cars, and vintage signage-each piece reflecting his imagination and eye for detail.

Some of his happiest moments were spent outdoors-gardening in the backyard with Liz, camping and cooking on Mount Lemmon, or sitting at McGraw's Restaurant in Tucson, feeding the roadrunners and soaking in the Arizona sun.

Wayne's gentle spirit and love for animals were evident to all who knew him. He leaves behind his beloved cats, who were constant companions and a source of joy.

Wayne Ray Clark will be remembered as a loving husband and kind-hearted soul whose laughter, generosity, and warmth will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. His memory will live on through his cherished wife and best friend, Liz Clark, and through the lives he touched with his kindness and love.

"Courage is being scared to death-but saddling up anyway." - John Wayne