Gerald (Tom) Clark, 80, passed away Tuesday, September 15, 2015 in Mesa, Az. He was born April 20,1935 in La Crosse, Wisconsin to Hiram and Catherine Clark. While growing up there, he enjoyed hunting and fishing and attended Logan High School. He married Shirley (Skip) Lawrence in 1956 in La Crosse. They moved to the Kenosha area in 1959 where they raised their family. He worked for the American Brass Company in Kenosha for a number of years. He retired from Hollister Corp. in Libertyville, IL. in 1999, followed by numerous road trips and vacations. They moved to Queen Creek, AZ in the summer of 2013.
He is survived by his wife and four children, Scott (Lynda) of Milton, WI; Julie (David) Hackamack of Gilbert, AZ; Bruce (Kenya) of Reno, NV; and Thomas (Cindi) of Kenosha, WI; Eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
He is further survived by two sisters, Virginia Anthony of Onalaska, WI, Patricia Huiss of La Crosse, WI. and one sister-in-law, Ruth Clark of La Crosse, WI.
He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Jim; Bill; Bob; Chuck, and an infant sister, Beverly. Further Preceded by sisters-in-law Doris Clark, Audrey Clark and Helen Clark; brothers-in-law Romey Anthony and Jerry Huiss.
He was known for his sense of humor, high energy, work ethic, altruism, and love of family. His proudest accomplishment was organizing the first Clark family reunion, an event that has endured through six generations.
A celebration of his life will be held in La Crosse on Saturday, Oct. 17th, 2015. Details to be announce at a later date.
Jerry was described as a “gentlemen” and in my brief time spent with him it seems to fit. His accomplishment with the family reunions is amazing. I know how much everyone looks forward to this family time. I have heard about it for years. When I look at Scott, I know Jerry’s family values are living on and will continue to live on with Johnnie, David, Sheryl, and Carter. Our prayers for all of you. He will be missed.
Julie, we are very sorry about your loss. We will keep you and your family in our prayers. May God give you and your family the courage and strength you need. Treasure the good memories your father has left behind.
To Mr. Clark’s family, I’m very sorry for your loss. It’s my hope that you can draw comfort and strength from Jehovah God’s promises in the Bible. At Revelation 21:3,4 he promises there will soon be a time when there will be no more pain, sickness, or death, and we can see the loved ones we have lost again. Please accept my deepest condolences.