Clarke, Charles J.
Charles (Chuck) Clarke, 87, passed away from natural causes on Friday, October 21, 2022, surrounded by his loving family in Tiverton, RI. Chuck is survived by his six children; Donna and husband, Chris Jepson, of Boston, MA; Kevin and partner, Lori Delfosse, of Portsmouth, RI; John and husband, Santiago Baez, of Grand View on Hudson, NY; Michael, of Malibu, CA; Nancy and husband, Stephan Braun, of Wellesley, MA; Sharon and husband, Gregg Levin, of Wellesley, MA; six grandchildren; Kyle and partner, Tayler Andersen, Aidan, Colin, Kaitlin, Charlotte, and Brady; two great-grandchildren, Theo and Bowen; and two nephews, Hank and Mark Riedl; and one niece, Jean Brandl; several grandnieces and one grandnephew; and many special friends and colleagues.
Chuck is predeceased by his parents, Hubert and Agnes (Curley) Clarke, his wife, Rosemarie (Finn), his sisters, Ann Riedl and Sheila Clarke, and his brother, Hubert Clarke.
Born on May 20,1935 in Yonkers, NY, Chuck spent his early years in the Bronx. He attended Cardinal Hayes High School and then Iona College, where he graduated with a BA in Economics. Chuck married his wife, Rosemarie (Finn) in 1958 and began their family life in Pearl River, NY. That same year, while a banquet waiter, Chuck began his insurance career with Travelers Insurance, in the NYC office. In 1963, he transferred, as an assistant property casualty underwriter, to The Travelers home office in Hartford, CT. He and Rosemarie then raised their family in Vernon and Glastonbury, respectively, for many years. After more than 55 years with Travelers, he retired and moved fulltime to Newport, RI.
Chuck's long-lived career was a source of considerable pride and fulfillment. He considered his colleagues at The Travelers his family and felt so lucky to have found work he loved... so much so, that he never considered it 'a job.' He always considered himself an underwriter, remaining humble while his responsibilities increased and job titles changed to Chairman of Commercial Lines, President of the Travelers Property Casualty Corp., and Vice Chairman of Travelers Companies, Inc. Chuck was confident in his ability to lead, but somewhat incredulous of accolades that followed, as he became a mentor and a legend amongst those who knew him. He often said, "My goal is to make the jobs of those around me easier." He was not a man of many words but was comfortable and commanding when speaking in front of many with a dry wit, heartfelt words, and keen perspective.
Chuck will be remembered for his wisdom, kindness, and generosity. His guidance and advice were often sought and respected. He had a sense of decency and resolve in the face of adversity, a disinterest in ego and materialism, and asked for honesty in those around him.
Creating time for family was a priority for Chuck. Annual family vacations and gatherings became increasingly important as his children's careers took off and as grandchildren entered the fold. Chuck was sure to share his love of sailing in Newport with family and friends. Outings on the water were often an adventure requiring faith, laughter, and an appreciation for mother nature. Despite a long life of 87 years, his children will always wish they had more time with their loving and honorable father. He will be deeply missed. A Celebration of Life service will take place Sunday, November 6, at 1pm, followed by a reception. Please email sharon@perfectcurve.com for details. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Chuck's memory to the American Lung Association www.lung.org.
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