Robert Clarke 07/11/2011

Robert Owens Clarke, 86, of Somerset, Wis., formerly of Duluth, died July 11, 2011 at Red Cedar Canyon Facility.  Robert was a WWII vet and retired from the Naval Air Reserves in 1985. He began his career with St. Germain’s Glass Company, retiring from Harmon Glass Company in 1990.  He spent his retirement making beautiful furniture for his family and friends. He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Audrey and his parents, Patrick & Helen.  He is survived by his daughters, Susan Clarke of Somerset, Wis., Diane Clarke of New Hope, Minn. Gloria (Robert) Wilson of Charlotte, Mich., Roberta Clarke of New Hope, Minn., and Mary Jane (William) Larner of Perry, Mich.; sisters Helenann Clarke of Mission Viejo, Calif., JoAnn Wain of Methuen, Mass., Patricia Archer of Denver, Colo.; sisters-in-law, Kathy (Bernie) Anderson of Wahpeton, N.D.; Mary Ellen Thiel of Lake Villa, Ill.; 10 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.  PRIVATE MEMORIAL SERVICE: for the family was held at Fort Snelling National Cemetery prior to burial.  In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the VFW in Duluth, Minnesota.  Arrangements were with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services of New Richmond.