Stanley George Clark
March 27, 1936- Aug 10, 2022
I have lost my dear husband, Stanley Clark. Without our knowledge, Stan had written his own last message in 1999:
Stan was born in 1936 in Kenora to his parents, Charles and Elsie Clark (Rudd). He was always appreciative of his parents who he would often describe as decent, responsible, caring people who Canada was “fortunate” to get as immigrants. His three older brothers, Charles, Robert and Kenneth, were particularly special to Stan, not only because of their looking after his welfare as a child and youth, but also because of each’s unique, individualistic approach to life.
A lifetime resident and “booster” of Kenora, Stan was enraptured by the rocky terrain, myriad of lakes and sheer beauty of his beloved Precambrian Shield country. Oftentimes, he would reminisce about his childhood experiences and love of local areas which were such a large part of his life- Sinclair’s hill, the mill yard, Laurenson’s Creek, Central School, Kenora High School- the Thistle Rink. The people he met and associated with as a child and youth were important to him throughout his life. Even as a child he understood, inherently, that “the child is the father of the man”.
Stan’s working adult life began early as he entered the work force directly from high school gaining employment in the “logging division” of the local paper mill, Mando. After 14 years of “woods experience”, from office clerk to camp clerk/ scaler at Dryberry Lake and the Jones Road, to 9 years of buying pulpwood and saw logs to sustain the appetite of the local mills, Stan decided on a career change. He graduated from Lakehead University with a double major B.A. and B.Ed, and spent 25 years at Beaver Brae Secondary School. Each student who entered his class was special to him. His philosophy on teaching was simple- treat each student with fairness and dignity. He poured himself and his life experiences into the subject novel or poem to make the topic relevant and meaningful.
Stan cherished his two children, Robin and Christopher, who he unstintingly supported at every turn in their lives. His greatest love was for his high school sweetheart, Dawn, his friend, wife and life partner for 61 years.
At Stan’s request there will be immediate cremation and no funeral service.
Update:
Stan was a gifted teacher. He initiated the two popular, worthwhile law courses that were taught at Beaver Brae. When Stan joined the English Department, his personality and love of language inspired a positive atmosphere for learning. Students enjoyed his classes. Stan appreciated staff support and enjoyed “twenty-five years of friendship, good company and high-toned conversation”- Thank you, Ron.
Stan was always civic minded and contributed his time and efforts on several Boards including the Separate School Board, the Museum Board and a local Credit Union Board. He was at one time the president of the Mixed Curling league, and you can find Stan Lake on the map close to Dryberry Lake, named after Stan.
Family was very important to Stan. Many happy hours were spent with my sister Joan Belanger (Blackie), and her wonderful children, Marie, Janet, Mark, Juanita, Suzanne and Philip. When they were little, Uncle Stan loved sharing his home-made bedtime stories. Adjacent cottages on Coney Island provided a venue for fishing, swimming and tea parties.
Brother Bob provided a Longbow Lake location for gatherings. Ken’s family (Elaine Adams), Ken Jr., Jeff, Jennifer, and Angela spent happy days helping with a bird sanctuary. Stan and I had the pleasure of having Ken and Jeff as summer company while they worked in Kenora during their university years. Charlie’s children Jackie and Chuck were welcome visitors when they were able to come.
Stan was very happy when he became a “daddy”. He loved Robbie Baby and Christy James with his entire being. He became a master child-feeder and diaper changer with enchanting enthusiasm. As babies, teens, and responsible adults our children have been a great joy for Stan. We were thrilled when our daughter Robin gifted us with three beautiful grandchildren. Clark, Brynne, and Torin (McMaster) will make the world a better place. Their intellect and empathy offer new hope.
When Stan and I retired, we enjoyed twenty-five years of companionship and travel. Stan wrote two booklets during these years. The first book contained short stories revolving around his childhood. In the next book he shared his father’s adventures of the “Peterborough Boys”. Stan presented this story to “Common Ground” story telling.
Stan was having some mobility issues in his 86th year. Our son Christopher has been an incredible help “at any time of day or night”. He provided boat rides, trips to restaurants and meals on his porch. We have appreciated his loving help. Also, he is a fine cook.
Having Robin here for her summer holiday has been a blessing for us. She has kept us company at the hospital every day. She has provided information and guidance to help us in troubling moments. Robin’s husband, Kim (Biem) has been a wonderful help with some of our household problems.
We were thankful for the excellent care and understanding that Stan received from our local nurses and Doctors. We appreciate your help. Our family requests no flowers and Stan did not designate a charity. He cared greatly about his local community of Kenora.
I will miss my loving, gentle friend.
“Now cracks a noble heart.
Good night sweet Prince”
Hamlet. Act V, Sc.2, line 349
Goda nott Elskan
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.brownfuneralhomekenora.com for the Clark family.