Curtis Elmer Clark

Curt ‘Bear’ Clark, 87, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Southwest Philadelphia to the late John H. Clark and Evelyn (Cook) Clark, Curt was a proud graduate of Dobbins Technical High School, Class of 1957. Following graduation, he honorably served his country in the United States Navy aboard the USS Saratoga. After his military service, Curt built a long and respected career as a plumber and was a proud member of Plumbers Union Local 690. After retirement, he continued to work over 10 years being sought out for his valued plumbing skills.

Curt was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, John ‘Jack’ Clark.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Teresa (Vicario) Clark, whom he shared a lifetime of love and devotion. He also leaves behind his loving children: Kim Clark of Holmes, Pennsylvania; Dr. Curt Clark Jr. (Vickie) of Fortson, Georgia; and Cathy Montgomery (Chuck) of Newark, Delaware.

Nothing brought greater pride and joy than his family. He was a devoted “Pop” to his cherished grandchildren – Courtney, Matthew, Ryan, Chase, Zachary, Emma, and Justin—each of whom held a special place in his heart.

For more than 60 years, Curt was a faithful member of Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Secane, Pennsylvania, where he was an active supporter of the parish and its CYO program. He became a familiar and beloved face at the parish’s annual carnival, where he was famously known for enthusiastically calling the “over/under”, bringing smiles and laughter to generations of families.

A lifelong Philadelphia sports fan, Curt’s greatest passion was cheering (aka yelling) for the Philadelphia Eagles. He proudly attended the Eagles’ 1960 NFL Championship Game and never lost his love for tailgating, football Sundays, and enthusiastically cheering on the Birds. “Go Birds!” was more than a saying—it was a part of who he was.

Curt also appreciated life’s simple pleasures. He never passed up the opportunity to enjoy a good (long) meal, especially when it meant spending time with family and friends. His sense of humor, steadfast loyalty, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He kept his mind sharp and was an avid chess player until he was 86.

Curt’s life was defined by service, hard work, unwavering faith, and devotion to his family. His memory will live on in the countless lives he touched and in the stories that will continue to be shared for generations.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the healthcare professionals who cared for Bear – specifically the University of Penn Oncology (Dr. Peter O’Dwyer and team) and Radiology (Dr. James Metz and team), Delaware Hospice, and The Summit in Hockessin, DE. Also, a special note of gratitude to Rev Fr. John Turk Flanagan for his spiritual guidance, particularly in the last couple years.

May ‘Bear’ rest in eternal peace.

Family and friends are invited to Curt’s Viewing from 9:00-11:00 AM on Wednesday, August 19th at Our Lady of Fatima Church, 1 Fatima Dr, Secane, PA 19018, followed by his Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM. Interment will be held privately for the family only at Washington Crossing National Cemetery.