It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of David John Clark, who passed away at his home in Springfield, Oregon, on June 26, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 70 years old.

Dave was born on August 27, 1955, in Jerome, Idaho, to Don C. Clark and Barbara L. Dennis. He was the fifth of their children and was raised in Buhl, Idaho. From an early age, Dave was full of energy and adventure, keeping his sisters on their toes.

In 1973, Dave married Irma Flores, and later welcomed their son, Phillip J. Clark. Dave enlisted in the United States Air Force. After leaving the Air Force, he returned to Buhl, where he worked briefly for the city. He later married Lydia South, and together they had their daughter in 1982, Lydia L. Clark.

Dave eventually became an ironworker. In 1985, after reuniting with Susan Share, the two married in Las Vegas. They made their home in Mesa, Arizona, where Dave eagerly accepted and raised Jared and Dustin Fairchild as his own sons. Together, Susan and Dave welcomed their youngest son, Dylan S. Clark, in 1986.

In 1990, the family relocated to Springfield, Oregon, where Dave returned to school to become a drug and alcohol counselor. He had a true passion for mentoring young people and dedicated much of his life to helping others by coaching youth sports. This led to a 17-year career with Kidsports. He then drove bus for the 4J school district. Dave found ways to encourage, inspire, and positively influence countless children and families. His friendly smile, caring heart, and familiar face became a cherished part of many students' daily lives.

Anyone who knew Dave knew of his unwavering love for the Oregon Ducks. Game days were among his favorite days of the year, and cheering on his Ducks was a tradition he treasured. Every grandchild who came into the family was welcomed as a “future Duck”. Dave was also known for his spirited personality—and his unforgettable driving style, which became the source of countless family stories, shared now through laughter and affection.

In 2013, Dave and Susan began working together for Crowd Management Services (CMS). They especially enjoyed working side by side at University of Oregon events, combining their love of people with their shared enthusiasm for the Ducks.

In 2021, Dave received a life-saving transplant. His family will always be grateful for the precious additional years they were blessed to share with him. During that time, he created treasured memories with his grandchildren and continued to enjoy the people he loved most.

Above all else, Dave's greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, Susan Clark; his children: Phil (Vicky) of Tennessee, Lydia (Tom) of Soda Springs, Idaho, Jared (Shannon) of Portland, Oregon, Dustin (Zach) of Junction

City, Oregon, and Dylan of Springfield, Oregon. He is also survived by his sisters, Donna Lynch, Joyce Bybee, and Norma Huggins, all of Buhl, Idaho; his cherished grandchildren, Breana, Phillip, Hailey, Abigail, Eleanor, Tayla, Gwyneth, Charlie, Khyree, Amelie, and Harrison; six great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will continue to honor his memory. Proceeded in death were his parents and oldest brother, Jim Clark.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the compassionate teams at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) and Signature Hospice of Eugene for their exceptional care, kindness, and support.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 8, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Community Center in Castleford, Idaho. Lunch will be served following the service.

A second Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 15, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Lamb Cottage in Eugene, Oregon. In honor of one of Dave's favorite treats, pie and ice cream will be served.

Dave's legacy lives in the countless lives he touched throughout the years; his mentorship, generosity, and unwavering love for his family will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.