Kenneth L. Clarke

RICHMOND, Ind. - Kenneth L. Clarke, age 86, of Richmond, died Saturday, January 1, 2011, at Reid Hospital. Born December 14, 1924, in Richmond, to Russel and Helen Harper Clarke, he was a life-long resident of Richmond. Kenny was a 1943 graduate of Richmond High School. He was a U.S. Army Air Corps veteran, having served during World War II in Europe. Kenny attended Indiana State University and graduated from Ball State University with a Masters Degree in education. He taught at Whitewater Schools for eleven years and retired from Richmond Community Schools after 29 years. Kenny started the Motorcycle Drivers Education Program, coached the RHS Girls Basketball Team from 1978 - 1980, and was a scorekeeper for RHS Football and Basketball for many years. He was an active member of First Presbyterian Church. Kenny was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who actively participated in the family activities. He enjoyed woodworking, carpentry, motorcycle riding, and was an avid sports fan. Kenny was a jack-of-all-trades, had a great sense of humor, and knew no strangers. Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Marilyn A. Jay Clarke; son, Christopher Clarke (wife Janice) of Richmond; daughter, Pamela Clarke Disser (husband Daniel) of Centerville, Ohio; grandchildren, Leslie Clarke Royer (husband Paul) of Edgewood, Indiana, and Jenna, Amy, and Jack Disser, all of Centerville, Ohio; great-granddaughters, Sophie and Greta Royer, both of Edgewood, Indiana; two brothers, Walter Clarke (wife Florence) of Maryland and Raymond Clarke (wife Shelby) of Tennessee; nieces; nephews; cousins; friends; and students. Kenny was a mentor and father figure to many of his students. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Robert Clarke. Visitation for Kenneth L. Clarke will be from 4 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 4, 2011, at Doan & Mills Funeral Home, 790 National Road West, Richmond. Funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 5, 2011, at First Presbyterian Church, 100 North 10th Street, Richmond, with Rev. David Layman officiating. Burial will be in Earlham Cemetery with military honors by the Wayne County Honor Guard. Memorial contributions may be made to: First Presbyterian Church, 100 North 10th Street, Richmond, IN 47374. Condolences may be sent to the family via the guest book at www.doanmillsfuneralhome.com.

Kenneth L. Clarke

December 14, 1924 - January 1, 2011