James Frederick Clark 93, passed away at his home on Friday, June 2, 2017.
He was born Oct 12, 1923 to Merle and Muriel Clark in Silver City, NM.
He attended local schools and graduated from Western High School in May 1942. Following graduation Fred was look-out on Signal Peak summer 1942. Due to WWII, he joined US Marines June 1943 and was wounded on the beach of Saipan, back on hospital stays to Hawaii and Camp Pendleton for six months, Fred was honorably discharged Nov 30, 1944 and received the Purple Heart.
Fred met Mildred Elizabeth Murray in the fall of 1945 and they married Mar 25, 1946. They enjoyed over 71 years together.
Fred enrolled at N.M. State Teachers College on the GI Bill and they lived in Campus Village. He received a Bachelor's of Science in Business summer of 1949. Fred worked during school for Colby's and was a volunteer fireman.
In later years he worked at Kennecott Copper Corp, was retail manager of Cosgrove's, owned Clark's Super mart grocery, Silver Office Supply, manager of Phelps Dodge mercantile at Tyrone and was manager of Alfred M Lewis wholesale grocery when he retired, 1973.
Fred was a member of Methodist Church, Masonic Lodge, Eastern Star and BPOE.
He was worshipful master of Masonic Lodge #8 in 1973.
Fred served 10 years on Silver Cons. School Board.
Fred enjoyed bowling, golf, woodworking, boating, fishing and flying.
He received a private pilot's license under instructor Thurman Yates. The Cessna Skylane and hanger were at Whiskey Creek Airport.
Since retirement, he and Millie traveled in their RV, spending winters in San Carlos, Mexico, on the Colorado River, and salmon fishing in Washington.
He leaves his wife Millie, son Rodger and wife Mary Lou, daughter-in-law Bonnie Clark, grandchildren Holly Sue Clark Burke, Kevin Patrick Clark, and great grandchildren Jayson and Jaimie. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Walter and son Rick.
Fred and Millie had 2 sons: George Frederick Clark now deceased, and Rodger Edward Clark.
Cremation has taken place under the direction of Bright Funeral Home.
A visitation for friends and family to celebrate Fred's long life will be Friday, June 9, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. at the family home. A private inurnment will be held at Masonic Cemetery at a later date.
Bright Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements, "Traditional Services and Care for your family and friends", 210 W. College Ave., Silver City, NM 575-388-1911.
Remembrances may be made at www.brightfuneral.net.