Obituary of John Clark

John Riley Clark, 96, of Montour Falls, passed away on Wednesday, October 22, 2014 at Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility. He was born on October 10, 1918, the son of the late Adelbert G. Clark and Ruth E. Riley Clark. John graduated from Cook Academy in 1936 and graduated from Union College in 1941 with a degree in electrical engineering. He then went to work for General Electric. In 1945, at the age of 29, he was involved in important projects for Martin Aircraft in Baltimore as an electric gun turret specialist and technician. John was frequently loaned to the US Navy by the Martin Interests for highly skilled work on aircraft. From August of 1948 to October of 1950, John and his brother operated "The Clark Brothers Garage" on Main St. in Montour Falls, where Smalley's now stands. John went on to work at Shepard Niles where he retired after almost 35 years of service. John enjoyed building houses, barns and stone walls, woodworking, horseback riding and dabbled in writing. He also enjoyed fishing with his cousin and best friend Jack Riley. He was predeceased by his siblings, Adelbert G. Clark, Jr., Marjorie "Midge" Clark Baker, and Douglas Clark. John is survived by his children, Dennis A. Clark, Michael J. Clark, Michele R. Rich, and Laurie A. Clark; brother, William D. Clark; several grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Saturday, October 25, 2014 from 1-3 pm at Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls. A funeral service will be held at 3:00 pm at the funeral home followed by burial in Montour Cemetery. The family would like to extend a special thanks to all of John's caregivers on Unit 1 at Seneca View, and to all of the wonderful service dogs. You may leave the family a message of condolence, sign a guestbook, or light a "Candle of Remembrance" at www.vedderandscottfuneralhome.com