William Clarke

William A. Clarke, a resident of Girard, PA, passed away Thursday, May 19, 2016, surrounded by his loving family.  He was born on August 17, 1931 in West Chester, PA, the son of the late Leo and Marion (Zuck) Clarke.
Following high school, Bill served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War in Flight Squadron 1737.  Bill was honorably discharged with the rank of Staff Sergeant in 1953.  After the service, Bill worked as a salesman for Erie Builders Supply Co. before moving to California for a few years where he attended school at the Los Angeles School of Technology.  Upon returning to Erie, he worked for several years for the Erie Redevelopment Authority as an urban renewal technician.  In later years, Bill went on to own his own business in New Product Development.  Over the years, Bill obtained eighteen United States Patents for his creative work.  In 2003, Bill was awarded Best Infant Product of the Year by the J.P.M.A. Association.  One of Bill’s favorite products was a baseball and glove he designed called Sure-Katch which aided in early development of baseball skills.
Bill was a member and usher at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church, a member of the American Legion Post #773, Disabled Veterans Chapter #73 PA, a member of Times Old Newsies, and a volunteer for decades at the Erie Veterans Medical Center.  Bill was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Indians fan.  He loved to play golf, especially with his son and grandchildren.  Bill was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.
Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife Pamela Clarke of 50 years.  He is survived by his son Greg Clarke and his wife Shelli of Girard, a daughter Stacy Cosme and her husband Joe of Millcreek, a daughter Heather Clarke of Seattle, and a daughter Linda Loesch and her husband Norman of Erie.  He is the grandfather of Dan Cosme, Ashley Cosme, Hayden Clarke and Brett Clarke, and great-grandfather of Oliver Cosme and Sam Cosme.  Also surviving are several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Per Bill’s wishes, no calling hours will be observed.  Friends are invited to attend a Funeral Service Monday, May 23, 2016 at 1:00 PM in the chapel of Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Military honors will be conducted by American Legion Post 773 Honor Guard. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Arrangements by the John J. Quinn Funeral Home, West 9th &  Liberty St.