Richard J. Clark

RENOVO - Richard J. Clark, 94, died Wednesday, September 03, 2014 at Bucktail Medical Center, South Renovo. He was born on July 28, 1920 in Latrobe and was the son of the late Thomas and Lenore (Schandel) Clark. On October 01, 1955 Richard married the love of his life the former V. Christine Mattis, who survives and they would have celebrated 59 years of marriage together this year. He graduated from the Greensburg High School class of 1939. Richard learned how to fly at the Latrobe Airport and soloed at a young age before he could drive. Still young, he received an appointment as an aviation cadet in the U.S. Air Force upon graduating in February 1943. He received his wings and commission after serving as an instrument flight instructor. He was a combat pilot over Europe during World War II, where he was awarded the Silver Star for Gallantry. He also received five Air Medals and a Purple Heart. He also participated in the Korean War. He was a DC-4 Captain on the Berlin Airlift and later a DC-4 Captain in the Far East Air Transport Service. He went on to be a corporate pilot with Westinghouse. Richard was an accomplished artist. He free lanced for Challenge Publications in California. His work has appeared in national magazines. He retired from Piper Aircraft as Head of Styling Design in December 1981. Richard was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Renovo. He had many interest but most of all he enjoyed flying, planes, painting, sports cars and model railroading. In addition to his wife Richard is survived by one son and daughter-in-law; Richard J. and Barbara Clark, II of Parker, CO, one daughter and son-in-law; Lisa A. and Stanley Croak of Conyers, GA, six grandchildren; Jennifer Lemire, Andrew Croak, Jeffrey Croak, Carley Ann Croak, Colleen Clark and Emily Clark, four great grandchildren; Quinn Lemire, Sierra Lemire, Kelsey Lemire and Phoenix Croak and one sister; Catherine Bell of Pittsburgh. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church Improvement Fund, 925 Huron Ave., Renovo, PA 17764 or to the Sun Home Hospice, 132 E. Main Street, Lock Haven, PA 17745. A gathering of friends and family will be held from 11:00-12:00, Saturday, September 06, 2014 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Renovo with the Reverend Charles Ugo Officiating. Burial will take place at the convenience of the family in St. Joseph Cemetery, Hyner. Arrangements are being handled by the Maxwell Funeral Home, 205 Fifth Street, Renovo, PA 17764.