Robert L. Clark

Robert L. Clark passed away peacefully on Easter Sunday, April 21, 2019. Bob was born in St. Anthony, Idaho to LuVern and Cynthia Clark. He was the second oldest of 8 children. His family survived the Great Depression by working hard together in their garden and dairy. As a youth, he rose early 365 days a year to milk the cows, bottle and deliver the milk with his best friend, his dog Chief.
Later the family sold their home and dairy and moved to Pocatello, Idaho so the 8 children could attend the University. Bob enlisted in the Army Reserve with the promise that he could finish his education before being called to active military duty. However, WWII intervened, and it was two decades later that he would ultimately graduate with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Hospital Administration.
Over his 24 years of military service, he had a variety of assignments in locations including Germany, San Francisco, New York, Japan, and Texas. His last assignment was as the commanding officer at the US Medical Depot in Europe. He retired as a Lt. Colonel after 24 years of service in the United States Army, and then returned to Pocatello, Idaho. He designed, built, and operated a 121-bed nursing home. Later he joined his father and brother in the real estate business. He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving three missions with his wife. He was a Rotarian, and the chairman of the hospital board. He never did retire.
He was a wonderful husband and was completely devoted to his beautiful wife. Bob and Ethel traveled the world and shared this passion for travel by generously providing 15 international family trips for their children and grandchildren. Bob’s greatest joy was serving his family. He touched the lives of many people with his compassionate heart and generosity.
Robert is preceded in death by his parents, his 6 siblings, and his wife of 68 years, Ethel Van Orden. He is survived by his 5 children: Sandy Todd (Larry), Kaye Clark, Jean Wood (Greg), Gary Clark (Janel), Sherri Olsen (Steve), 22 grandchildren, 51 great-grandchildren, and 2 brothers.
The family would like to thank his large extended university neighborhood, Encompass, Copper Summit, and Wendy’s.
Funeral services will be held Monday, April 29th at 11am in the Princeton Ward building, 42 Princeton Ave. Family will receive friends Sunday, April 28th from 6-8pm in the Cornelison Funeral Home, 431 N. 15th Ave., Pocatello, and from 10:00-10:40am Monday in the Church.
Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.cornelisonfh.com
208-232-0542

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