Clark, Neil

Neil Scott Clark passed away suddenly March 15, 2021. His spirit left this earth to join his feisty mother, Nancy, and his loving stepfather, Roy Parker. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, on April 30, 1953, Neil was known as “Scotty” to family and childhood friends. Proud of his Sicilian roots, Neil used his street smarts and wit to survive poverty in inner city Cleveland. He played football for Cleveland Catholic High School, using lessons learned on the field and throughout his youth to chart his life’s course. Neil obtained a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Ohio University and found his calling in politics. Employed by the Ohio Senate Republican Caucus in the early 1980’s, he devoted countless hours to help Republicans gain the majority. He was amused by the nickname, “The 34th Senator,” for his efforts. Turning his passion to political consulting, Neil was a founding member of State Street Consultants, a premier lobbying firm. He later formed Grant Street Consultants, continuing to be a respected voice in politics. He wholeheartedly represented clients and enjoyed advocating for the underdog. While Neil’s career accomplishments are many, what mattered most to him was family. He is survived by his loving and supportive wife, Colleen, whom he credited for making him a better man and for introducing him to healthier foods, something foreign to him. He cherished their time together, especially at the beach, and with their dogs Cece and Demi, who appear in most family photos. Neil’s greatest pride and joy are his surviving children, Mitchell Clark and Brittany Clark, who grew accustomed to meeting people who already knew all about them. Every school event, graduation and accomplishment was heralded by their proud Dad. Neil treasured family vacations, whether to Disney, visiting every state or sailing the ocean. He loved every moment with them. Neil is survived by his sister, Dennielle, her husband, Jim; his sister-inlaw, Diane, her husband, Jeff; and many nieces and nephews. He was grateful for friends who faithfully kept in touch with him and supported him, especially in recent months. In his spare time, Neil made stunning mosaics that he gifted to family and friends. During quarantine, he perfected baking French bread and delighted his father-inlaw, Ray Lora (Twila), with a weekly homemade custard pie. Throughout his life, Neil quietly rendered unexpected acts of kindness and generosity to strangers. He paid medical bills, bought groceries, gave money, clothing and goods to people who needed help. He rarely spoke of his generosity, preferring to save for himself and his loved ones this best part of him. His generous heart and the simple beauty of his kindness made him who he was. Neil spent retirement writing a memoir entitled What Do I Know? I’m Just a Lobbyist. In lieu of flowers, his family asks that contributions be made to Columbus Humane or Star House, a center for youth experiencing homelessness. A private celebration of his life will be held at a future time.