Wednesday, March 19, 2014

Clarke Memorial Service

Dennis and Eileen Clarke arriving at the 50th anniversary gala

Reverend Dennis W. Clarke became the Senior Installed Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Sun City on February 5, 1995. Rev. Clarke spoke with a delightful brogue, having been reared in Ireland. He received his seminary training in Belfast and ordination in Maghera, County Londonderry, Ireland. Rev. Clarke had participated in two successful exchange programs; after his family had returned to Ireland a call came from a Presbyterian church in Canada, and the family moved to Canada when Dennis was 35 years old. The Clarkes have three children, two born in Ireland and one in Canada. Rev. Clarke served a church in Atwood, Ontario, Canada (1970-1976); one in Sarnia Ontario, Canada (1976-1989); and then one in Greenville, Ohio, for six years. He met Jane and Fred Bell when they visited Greenville; Jane convinced him that he belonged in Sun City. During his first year as Senior Pastor at the First Presbyterian Church he visited with every church member in their home. He retired in February of 2001.

We are sorry to report that Rev. Clarke passed away in hospice on Monday. His memorial service will be this Friday, March 21, at 1:00 in our Sanctuary. Rev. Clarke will be greatly missed.

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