Gary Grant Clarke (lovingly known as Gare Bear), 76, of South Bend passed away on Monday, August 16, 2021 at his home.  He was born October 7, 1944 in Toledo, OH to Grant Thornton and Jean (Emery) Clarke.  Gary married Candice (Cook) Clarke, who survives, on August 24, 1980 in Plainfield, IN.

In addition to his loving wife of nearly 41 years, Gary is survived by his son, Grant Clarke-Crews (the smartest child, according to Grant) and his husband Josh, of Los Angeles, CA; daughter, Caitlin Clarke (the favorite child, according to Caitlin) of Austin, TX; mother, Jean Clarke of South Bend, IN; sister, Patricia Dervin of Goshen, IN; newest addition to the family, puppy Piper; and a large, extended loving family. Gary is preceded in death by his father, Grant Clarke.

Gary graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University where he was a pitcher on the baseball team.  He was a former franchise owner and executive for Noble Roman’s Pizza before launching a career in the insurance industry.  Gary obtained his pilot’s license, and enjoyed golfing, fishing, photography and flying radio-controlled planes.  He was a member of the South Bend Radio Control Club and an active and valued member of National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) where he held many leadership roles.  He was also an avid Indiana University sports fan.

Gary was a wonderful human who loved his family immensely.  He will always be remembered for his quick wit and wisdom, kindness and camaraderie, and innate ability to make strangers feel like friends. He was a man who deeply loved his community and served it well.

A celebration of life honoring Gary will be held on Wednesday, August 25, 2021 from 5:30-8:30 PM EDT at Morris Park Country Club, 2200 McKinley Ave, South Bend, IN 46615 with toasts and memory sharing to begin around 6:30 PM.  To keep all of Gary's loved ones safe, the family requests that all those attending please wear a mask.  Palmer Funeral Home-Welsheimer North Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Donations in memory of Gary may be given to the South Bend Radio Control Club, 51288 Old Sycamore Ct, Granger, IN 46530.
 

08/26/2021 JFC