James Robert Clark, 81, of Columbia City passed away unexpectedly at 10:52 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5, 2015, at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne where he had been taken earlier in the day. He was born on July 24, 1934, in Whitley County the son of James S. and Alice H. (McLaughlin) Clark.

Bob was raised on the farm where he was expected to help and earned his strong work ethic that he demonstrated during his entire lifetime. He graduated from Jefferson Center High School with the Class 1952. Bob spent two years in the United States Army where he was stationed in Germany for a brief stint. He was united in marriage on April 21, 1956, to M. Joan Bechtold at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church, Nix Settlement. He spent most of his lifetime in Jefferson Township and lived at his present home since 1987. He retired in 1990 after 37 years of service as a Supervisor for Conrail Railroad.

Bob was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church where he formerly served on the Pastoral Council and as an usher. He was an avid golfer, often being found playing at Eel River Golf Course. He was also an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs baseball and Notre Dame football. Anybody that knew Bob, knew he would always be early to any event, which included his commitment to attend every event that his grandchildren were involved in.

Survivors include his son: Todd M. (Jodi) Clark, Fort Wayne; two grandchildren: Olivia and Aaron Clark, Fort Wayne; brother: Francis J. (Barb) Clark, Brookfield, Mo.; and sister: Mary Agnes (Gerald) Johnson, Arcola. He is preceded in death by his wife: M. Joan Clark; brother: Ralph T. Clark; and sister: Margaret Nusbaum.

Visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10, at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home, Columbia City. The Recitation of the Rosary will be conducted at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral Home. Visitation will be from 9-10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Arcola with mass beginning at 10 a.m. with Rev. Msgr. Thadeus Balinda officiating. Burial will follow in St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery. ‘

Memorial gifts may be given in Mr. Clark’s memory to Masses at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.