John "Jack" Francis Clark

John “Jack” Francis Clark, 92, of Indianapolis, passed away peacefully at Ashford Place, Shelbyville, Indiana October 4, 2022. He was born April 24, 1930 in Indianapolis, IN, to Harvey and Justine Krebs Clark. He was raised on Indy’s eastside and attended Little Flower Catholic Church and School. Jack graduated from Cathedral High School in 1948. Jack’s mother thought a young man should not be idle but should be kept busy and learn responsibility, so she talked to the manager of the local Standard Grocery Store. He started there at the age of 15 as a stock boy. Many lifelong friendships were made and most importantly through those friendships he met his future wife, Elizabeth Ann Ely. Jack and “Betty Ann” married in the rectory of Little Flower Church September 3, 1949. In 1952 Jack joined the U.S. Marine Corps and spent two years stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA. Betty Ann joined him, and they lived in a small apartment in Oceanside, CA, until he was discharged in 1954. Back home in Indiana, the young couple surprised their families with news of their first pregnancy. Andrea was followed by Duane, Brian and Chuck. Jack was employed with Indianapolis Power & Light and moved up the ranks during his 43-year tenure. He retired in 1992 as an underground supervisor. Family camping vacations were enjoyed by all, and the stories continue to this day! Jack was an avid photographer and there were thousands of slides to go along with stories. Jack was also a Scout leader for many years. After Betty Ann’s death in 2002, Jack received the best gift he never knew he needed – a dog he named “Molly B”. He spoiled her with crispy fried chicken and ice cream. Jack re-connected with friend Mary Taylor. They became companions and best friends. Mary brought joy and laughter into his life until her death in 2017. Visitation will be Sunday, October 9, 2022 from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Shirley Brothers Washington Memorial Chapel. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, October 10, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. at Little Flower Catholic Church, 4720 E. 13th Street. Jack was preceded in death by his parents; older brother, Joe Clark; younger sister, Nancy Long; and grandson, John Arvin. He is survived by his daughter, Andrea (Chris) Arvin; sons, Duane (Sandra), Brian (Joy) and Chuck (Anne) Clark; eight grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. (Jack always marveled at what he and Betty Ann had started!) Memorial contributions in Jack’s honor are suggested to Little Flower Catholic Church and/or the American Heart Association.

Tributes

John "Jack" Francis Clark

April 24, 1930 - October 4, 2022