Grandpa Clark

Spencer's Grandpa John R Clark passed away on Tuesday night (June 8).  His pancreatic cancer came on quite suddenly and claimed all his faculties in only a short amount of time.  It was a total whirlwind, especially for his five children that all came together to be with him and his wife for the last week of his life, as they cared for him and began trying to organize all his personal affairs.

A few days before his passing, Spencer's mom texted us and asked if we would like to send her an email with some thoughts we'd like to share with him.  I thought it would be good to take record of the things each of us wanted to share with him at the end of his life and our relationship with him here on earth (for now).

Dear Grandpa,


I'll always remember a conversation we had during the time we lived with you in Chico. I'm not sure how it came about, but we were in your kitchen and we were discussing some Gospel topic (I believe it was related to eternal families). You mentioned that it was one of the reasons you look forward to death. To me (as a twelve year old) this was a radical concept... "You look forward to death?" I asked. Without wavering you replied something to the effect of, "Yes. There are a lot of things I'd like to understand better, a lot of people I'd like to meet including ancestors and historical figures, and I look forward to seeing the Savior."

To me, the ability to face a topic that the natural man--with a perspective confined by the limitations of the veil--understands so little, demonstrated several things about your character. Chiefly, this was a powerful display of your testimony, which I have seen on so many other occassions. Secondarily, it provided insights into the things you find most important, namely your ongoing quest for knowledge (which you have tirelessly pursued), your interest in family (no matter how distantly related) and your endeavors to pursue your personal relationship with Christ (which is manifested in the integrity by which you have lived).

From my wedding, to taking me to the MTC, climbing Mt. Lassen, all the way back to bouncing me on your knee as a little boy, I have hundreds of memories with you. Your commitment to service, to family, and to always moving with a purpose have left a profound impact on my life. Not only through your direct influence, but also through the examples of the children you raised, and those traits my mother has passed on to me. You truly have built a powerful legacy.

I am very sorry that you feel so sick. At a time like this it is impossible for me to know what you are feeling, but I want you to know that we love you and pray for you. I hope your pain is relieved soon, and I am excited for the great adventures you have ahead. Until we meet again,

Your loving grandson,

Spencer

_________________________

Hi Grandpa!


I have a hard time even imagining you with a cold, let alone being this miserable. I can hardly believe how fast this has happened.

I thought it would be a good time to share some of my thoughts and feelings, and maybe a memory or two.

Grandpa, I've always loved having you around. You have been so mindful of my comfort and happiness since Spencer and I were married. You always have something stimulating to talk about. You always have the energy and thoughtfulness to help where ever help is needed. Remember when you showed up at my family's home the day before our wedding and just dug right in to help prepare the yard and home for the reception? My family certainly won't forget that anytime soon. As I recall, you missed some part of the wedding festivities because you just couldn't pull yourself away from your service! And speaking of the wedding, it was you who escorted the guests through the pouring rain under an umbrella to and from our doorstep the night of the reception! That was so thoughtful and helpful, and again, my family won't soon forget that.


Im always touched when I think of a time when I feel like we really bonded. We were at the Boise Temple for Clark and Rachel's wedding, and I was large with child (Cadence) and feeling very ill after sitting in a sealing room filled beyond capacity with supportive family and quite warm at that. I needed a break and so you got me some water and walked with me, supporting my arm, out to your car. You kept me company and made sure I was able to recover my wits. I knew i was with family then.

I hope you were able to hear Cadence's message that she left on April's phone. She is usually quite avoidant on the phone but when I told her you were feeling very sick and reminded her when you spent time with her at Christiana's wedding, she was very willing to leave you a message to tell you that she loves you and is sorry you feel so sick.


Thank you for all your kindness, thoughtfulness, and service. We love you and wish we could be with you now.


Love,


Mardee.

_______________

There are a million and one things we could write about Grandpa Clark, but I thought that some of his most important qualities were alluded to here in our last letters to him.  He was a unique, incredible man.  We will miss him.  And now our prayers turn to Spencer's mom and her brothers and sisters, as well as Grandma Clark, as they all sort through what a person leaves behind.