Donald Earl Clark, a man of unwavering faith, boundless love for family, and a zest for adventure, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2024. Born and raised in Flint, Michigan, Don's life was a testament to resilience, a love of learning, and a contagious enthusiasm for life's experiences.
Don graduated from Flint Central High School in 1961, where he played the coronet in the band. His thirst for knowledge led him to Eastern Michigan University, where he earned his master's degree in Biology and met his wife, Linda. They married in 1970, enjoyed a wonderful journey together and raised 2 beautiful daughters in Troy, Michigan. He also cherished his 1967 Corvette, in which he would take his daughters on unforgettable rides, even letting them sit in the open-air trunk!
Education wasn't just a career for Don; it was a passion. He proudly educated future healthcare providers at Highland Park and Schoolcraft Colleges, finding immense joy in nurturing the minds of those who would go on to care for others.
Life's detours couldn't dampen Don's spirit. Laid off from teaching in the 80s, he transitioned to automotive parts sales. Though finances tightened, forcing the sale of his beloved Corvette, his dedication to family never wavered. He thrived in his new career, even traveling internationally (including multiple trips to Japan!) as a Ford account manager for key fobs. During his travels, he traced his family roots back to a manor in England, where his great-great grandparents met, working as a butler and a maid. Don retired from Alps Automotive, where he even started a lunchtime Bible study.
Don found true love again and married Grace Houriet in 2012, living in Florida, Texas and San Miguel de Allende, Mexico together. They were inseparable, sharing a love for travel, adventure, nurturing their faith, friendships and creating lasting memories. Their zest for life and genuine charm made them beloved by friends from all over the world. They embarked on epic adventures, including two three-month cruises around the world.
Don was the family photographer, capturing so many significant events through his lens. He dreamt of bringing his entire blended family together, a dream he realized at the 2018 Peake Family Reunion in Michigan. He embraced everyone with unwavering love and a unique ability to make them feel special.
Above all, Don was a family man. He cherished his daughters, Kristin (Larry) Parker and Julie (Dan) Raikes, his grandchildren, Joshua, Brandon, Jack, Caleb, Aubrey, and Benjamin, his sister Marge Jensen, and multiple nieces, nephews and cousins. His family grew even larger with the addition of Grace's children, Michelle (Ted), Jean Pierre (Cara), and Dominique, and their grandchildren, Colton, Teddy, Isabella, Caden, Tanner, Cale, Skyler, Kingston, and Scout. He was preceded in death by his parents, Virginia and Earl Clark, his wife Linda, his brother Richard, and grandson Caden.
Don's faith was a cornerstone of his life. He inspired many with his unrelenting trust in God, especially in his final moments, where he expressed complete peace and readiness to meet his Maker.
Don leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, adventure, and steadfast faith. He may be gone, but the memories he created and the lessons he taught will continue to inspire his family and those who knew him.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.9.6