Ronald Keith Clark, 76, passed away Wednesday, December 21, 2016 in hospice care at Community Hospital.
Born September 20, 1940 in Anderson to Ralph and Leora (Rimmer) Clark, he was a lifelong resident. He graduated from Anderson High School and Anderson University. He earned a master's degree from Ball State University. On June 27, 1964, he married Sandra Jean Stephens in Niagara Falls, New York.
They were the parents of Christopher Keith Clark. Sandra and Ron were married for 45 years until her death in 2009. Their son Christopher passed away in 1996.
Mr. Clark, as he was known by his many students, taught English, Speech and Drama for over 30 years at Highland High School where he directed the Theater Program. He is well known for his theatrical productions. He is beloved by his former students, many of whom credit him with having shaped the courses of their lives. After retiring in 1997 from Highland, he was a part-time instructor in English at Anderson University. He was a member of Park Place Church of God, where he directed the Logos Players in a number of plays. Ron and Sandra loved to travel. They visited many countries especially enjoying the cities of Europe. After Sandra's passing, and as he met the challenges of cancer with an almost indomitable hope, Ron continued to travel and he enjoyed spending time with his many friends. He never met a stranger. He loved to read and attend theater and symphony performances. He was a pianist having studied a number of years with Dr. Paul Breitweiser. Ron loved flowers and he was a consummate gardener. Andersonians will also remember that as a young adult, he had a music program on WHBU radio where he was known as "Ron Kline Clark".
In addition to his parents, wife and son, he was predeceased by his sister, Patricia Clark Roseberry.
He is survived by his brother, Jack Clark of Indianapolis, brother-in-law, Stanley Stephens and his wife, Christie Stephens, nephew, Michael Stephens and his wife, Heather Harriss, grandnephew and grandniece, Daniel and Emma Anne Stephens, several cousins, and a large family of former students and cherished friends, many lifelong.
A memorial service with Dr. David Markle and Dr. David Coolidge officiating, will be held at Park Place Church of God on Tuesday, January 10, 2017 at 12 noon. Visitation will be in the Bessie Byrum Lounge from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Interment will follow the service at East Maplewood Cemetery. Ron's family is deeply grateful to the physicians, other medical professionals and many friends who have cared for him. Contributions in memory of Ronald K. Clark may be made to Park Place Church of God (Coolidge Chancel Concert Series) or Anderson University (Musical Theatre Program).
Rozelle-Johnson Funeral Service is handling the service arrangements.
Post online condolences at www.rozelle-johnson.com.