Darwin R. Clark, 85, of Morrisville

APRIL 1, 1932-APRIL 17, 2017

MORRISVILLE >> Darwin R. Clark, 85, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 17, 2017 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Syracuse, N.Y.

Darwin was born on April 1, 1932 in Morrisville, a son of Frank and Bernice Bezio Clark. On July 11, 1953, he married Shirley Wilkinson in Canastota, who predeceased him on April 1, 1985. A lifelong Morrisville resident, Darwin took over the family’s dairy farm for many years until his retirement.

Surviving are his wife, Joan (Nicklaw); his children, Carolyn (Gary) Tucker, Kelly (James) Mar- tingano, Jessica (Matthew) Sweeting, and a stepdaughter, Laurie Teater. He was beloved Grampa to his five grandchildren, Lindsey (Stephen) Dryja, Erin Tucker, Emily Martingano, and Trevor and Ulrick Sweeting; as well as Great-Grandpa to Ethan and Lucas Dryja. He is also survived by three sisters, Mildred Smith, Melva (Leo) Minotti, and Esther (Richard) Davis. Darwin was predeceased by three brothers (Gordon, William, and Donald Clark); as well as three infant daughters (Laurie, Anne Marie, and Christine); and an infant son.

Coming from a large family of seven children and nieces and nephews too numerous to count, Darwin’s happiest moments were spent with his family, whether it was a casual get-together, the holidays, or Annual Clark Family Reunions. He chatted, but mostly he liked to just sit and observe, especially the little ones. He always had open arms for them. In life, he had a happy, positive outlook on all things, accompanied by an infectious smile. His kind and gentle soul will never be forgotten and his memory will be cherished forever.

Funeral services will be held at 11a.m. on Thursday, April 20, 2017 at the Burgess & Tedesco Funeral Home, 31 Cedar St., Morrisville, followed by interment in the Morrisville Cemetery.

Contributions in his memory may be made to S.E.V.A.C., P.O. Box 1030, Morrisville, N.Y. 13408 or to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 7, E. Syracuse, N.Y. 13057. www.cancer.org.

To send a condolence and sign the Book of Memories online, go to www.burgessandtedescofuneralhomes.com.