This is a printer-friendly version of an article from Zip06.com.

Jerry Clark Sr.

Jerry F. Clark Sr., 85, beloved husband of Carol Weiler Clark, died March 25, 2024, at Middlesex Hospital surrounded by his family. He was born Feb. 20, 1939, to Melville and Lillian (Lewis) Clark and was born and raised on Maple Avenue in Essex.

He served in the National Guard and then the U.S. Army until 1963. Jerry worked at Uarco until closure, then retired from Whelen Engineering at age 81. Jerry and Carol RV-traveled for 19 winters, ultimately staying in Florida for the warmth.

Jerry’s interests were many, as a founding member of the Pattaguassett Muzzle Loaders, licensed amateur radio operator, a 35-year member of the Deep River Fire Department, Deep River constable, Director of Emergency Management, genealogist, woodworker, co-owner of Ivoryton Package Store, and member of the VFW, Elks, and Moose. Jerry was full of wisdom and always prepared to problem solve. He was gifted in electronics, electrical, plumbing, heating and cooling. He shared his wealth of knowledge with many, especially his two sons, in whom he instilled a gifted ability and hunger for problem-solving and conducting business. He was well known for his weathered black leather vest, cowboy boots, and cowboy hat. In his left vest pocket, you would find, always, a small pocket knife and a black Sharpie. If he needed to open a Christmas present, strip a wire, or doodle his signature dog on any nearby surfaces, he was always prepared.

Poppy Jerry had an everlasting curiosity for the stories that led to our families and others. He researched and discovered the elusive details of our ancestors and their stories. His cousin Faye enjoyed such treasures alongside him, forming a valuable friendship. He recorded all his discoveries so that future generations can continue to learn the complex history of our families. Jerry was proud of the multiple generations rooted in the town of Essex and many more in Connecticut. This was a special place where his grandchildren played on the same dirt he and his ancestors had, walked the same halls, drove the same streets, and were shaded by the trees they had planted long ago.

He is survived by his wife Carol of 62 years; his sons, Jerry Jr. and Jim Clark (wife Beverly); and the lights of his life, his grandchildren, Ely and Hannah Clark. Jerry had a great sense of humor with a gregarious and memorable laugh that will be missed by all, especially his extended family and lifelong friends. In the words of his granddaughter Hannah, “Poppy was a romantic, brave, and grateful “cowboy” with an enormous curiosity about where we came from and where we were going. I will never forget the romantic way he spoke to my grandmother, Mimi, or how he bravely wore his heart on his sleeve for her affection. The most beautiful thing a young girl can hear is her grandfather’s fearless expression of love and devotion to her grandmother. The most beautiful thing a young girl can see is her grandfather’s fearless pursuit of his deepest curiosities and desire for discovery. His words and way of being have planted flowers in my young heart, and his memory will water them each day.”

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 27, at the First Congregational Church of Deep River, 1 Church Street in Deep River. In honor of Jerry, donations may be made in his name to the Deep River Fire Department, 57 Union Street, Deep River, CT 06417. To share a memory of Jerry or send a condolence to his family, please visit www.rwwfh.com. Arrangements are in the care of the Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home in Centerbrook.