Bobby Ray Clarke

Bobby R. Clarke, 72, of Willimantic, died Sunday March 6, 2005 at home. He was born October 12, 1932 in Oxford, NC, the son of Lee Roy and Mary (Rowland) Clarke Stewart and had lived in Willimantic since 1957. Mr. Clarke was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean War and a member of Gold Star Post #1724 V.F.W. He retired after 30 years of service with Republic Steel. Mr. Clarke was the president of Local Union #5781 United Steel Workers for 20 years. Mr. Clarke is survived by his devoted wife of 39 years, Renee (Carl) Clarke. He also leaves a son, Robert Clarke and a daughter, Mary Lee Clarke, both of Tennessee. He has 2 granddaughters, Christa and Kimberly as well as several nephews, a niece and several in-laws. A graveside service with military honors will be held Saturday at 11:00 a.m. in the New Willimantic Cemetery, Rte. 32 at Rte. 6, Willimantic. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, the family requests you send donations to Gold Star Post #1724 V.F.W., 1415 West Main St., Willimantic, CT 06226. Arrangements are through the Potter Funeral Home, Willimantic. Please visit www.potterfh.com for online memorial guestbook.