Ronald J. Clark

Ronald J. Clark

Age 76 of Joliet and formerly of New Lenox, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 14, 2023 at Lightways Hospice in Joliet.

Born September 14, 1946 in Chicago, Ron was a son of Acey and Mildred (Anderson) Clark. He was raised and educated in Chicago and graduated from Fenger High School with the class of 1964. Following graduation, Ron enlisted and proudly served his country with the United States Marine Corps during the conflict in Vietnam until being honorably discharged in 1968. On October 19, 1968 Ron married the love of his life, Darlene Pugh, and together they made a home a raised their family. After getting married, Ron and Darlene moved to New Lenox where Ron would build his first of three homes in his lifetime. He worked as a pipefitter for Local 597 until retiring in 2009, and excelled in woodworking. He loved staying busy and was always building items. Ranging from model airplanes to custom cabinet doors, Ron could do it all. He was also an avid fisherman and loved taking his family to Canada to go Muskie fishing. When he wasn’t keeping busy with work or home projects, you could find Ron cheering on either the Chicago White Sox, Bears or Blackhawks depending on the time of year, or he may be communicating with someone half a world away on his Ham Radio, or just simply tending to his yard and garden. Ron was certainly a Jack-of-all-trades, but first and foremost a family man who loved and lived for his wife, daughter and grandson. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Ron is survived by his wife of 55 years: Darlene Clark; daughter: Cindy Clark (Casey McConnell); grandson: Ryan Clark; sister: Judy (Larry) Wesensten, and brother: Randy (Robin) Clark, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and in-laws.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Acey and Mildred Clark.

Family will receive relatives and friends on Sunday, March 19, 2023 from 12:00 p.m. until time of funeral service beginning at 3:00 p.m. at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road in Joliet. Interment will follow the next day, Monday, March 20, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood where Ron will receive full military honors for his service. Guests wishing to attend the graveside service are encouraged to arrive at the cemetery welcome center by 10:45 a.m.