Donald G. Clarke

Donald G. Clarke

Passed away peacefully in his home on June 13, 2021 surrounded by family, age 98. He is survived by 6 children; Jane (Larry) Gusmus, Bridget (Dave) Fisher, Emily Wilson, Sarah (George Kaplinski) Clarke, Timothy Clarke and Deron Waller, David Clarke. Also survived by 3 grandchildren; Anna (Jason) Idziak, Tricia (Jamie) Clark, Colleen (Shane) Brogan along with 7 great grandchildren; Andrew, Padraic, Benjamin, Kennedy, Josephine, William and Mairin as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 59 years Margaret, son Patrick, son-in-law James Wilson, parents Leo and Jessie Clarke and brothers Bob, Jack and Tom.

Don was a lifelong resident of Jackson, growing up in the great depression where he learned his incredible work ethic. He played multiple sports while attending St Mary's High School, graduating in 1940. He enlisted in 1942 and qualified for the Army Air Corps. As part of his training he completed 2 years of college course work in 6 months at the University of Florida. He was a decorated pilot flying a B-24 bomber over North Africa and southern Europe. During one mission his plane was forced to crash land in occupied territory where he and his crew were hidden by resistance fighters until being rescued by the RAF.

After the war he finished his education at Michigan State College. He was Vice President of Kent Moore, retiring after 39 years. He served as president of the Jackson Area Manufacturing Association and was heavily involved in Junior Achievement. Don also played a pivotal role in the formation of Lumen Christi High School.  He married Margaret Griffin in 1953 and the two would have a wonderful life together. Don was an avid golfer his entire life and enjoyed spending summers at Clark Lake since his childhood.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be at Queen of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church on Monday, June 28 at 11:00 AM with Father Timothy MacDonald as the celebrant.

The family will receive friends at the church, before Mass, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM.

The Clarke family wishes to offer a special thank you to Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice for their kind efforts during Don's final days.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Lumen Christi High School, Queen of the Miraculous Medal or Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice.

Desnoyer Funeral Home
Family owned for 131 years