Obituary of James Henry Clark

JAMES HENRY CLARK III (JIM) James Henry Clark III “Jim” died peacefully on February 15, 2019, surrounded by his family, after a brief illness. Jim was born April 15, 1943, to James and Lavonne Clark in Michigan City, Indiana. He graduated from New Buffalo High School. In 1961, he joined the United States Air Force and later received a medal of honor for a heroic act at the risk of his own life. At Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, Jim rushed in at close range to extinguish a refueling burning vehicle that was connected to an aircraft and pumping fuel. He was honorably discharged at the end of his tour. Jim worked hard his entire life to provide for his family. His most recent work was as the Director of Maintenance for Emerald Downs for the past 17 years. Retirement was never in his vocabulary. He simply enjoyed people and had an affinity for making sure people were well taken care of. His quiet generosity touched many in our community. He was brilliantly funny and loved to tell a good story. Jim was predeceased by his parents, Jim and Lavonne Clark; his first wife, Alice Mae Clark; as well as his sons, Jay Clark and Bill Bruzas; in addition to his granddaughter, Shelby Clark. Jim is survived by his wife, Debi; his sister, Karol Blomgren; his daughters, Deana Johnson, Melissa Shineman, Julie Bruzas, Lisa Jones, Tara McFadden, Tanya Thieme. He is also blessed to have many grandchildren: Kourtney Apgar, Katie and Chrissy Requa, Garrett Johnson, Scott Shineman, Heather White, Megan Nelson, Brandt and Brandy Bruzas, Lena Pond, Ryan and Maren Jones, Hailey Miller-McFadden, Scott and Timothy McFadden, and a close extended family. A private memorial will be celebrated by his family. Please leave online condolences at www.edwardsmemorial.com Arrangements by Edwards Memorial, Funerals Homes, Chapels and Crematories. 253-566-1008