Neal Clark

Neal Clark, age 87, a lifelong resident of Delano, TN, passed away on October 1, 2014, at Star Regional Hospital in Athens, TN. Neal was preceded in death by his parents: John Ransom Clark and Kate Baker Clark. He is survived by several first cousins, including Lillian Clark-Pitschmann and (Louis) of Tuscaloosa, AL; James Baker and (Edna J.) of Ooltewah, TN; Brenda Clark of Benton, TN; and Linda Clark Miller (John) of Chattanooga, TN; and also several other extended family members and friends. With his parents, Neal was a farmer and breeder of prize Herefords. Later, he became a rural mail carrier, and in the course of several years logged many miles and made many friends. Neal was also involved in several business ventures in Benton and Cleveland, TN. He was a 50-year Mason at the Ocoee Lodge 212. Neal was also a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason and Shriner in Chattanooga. In retirement, he was an avid volunteer at shelters and food kitchens. Few people would describe Neal as a simple man. Like many blessed with extraordinary gifts, Neal was many-faceted and most assuredly never uninteresting. What stood out to many were his acute powers of observation. He was fond of teaching his younger cousins the intricacies of nature. One of them commented that not only was Neal aware of the fly on the wall, but he could also tell you whether it was listening or not. Neal's use of language was amazing, especially his ability to invent folksy phrases that one had never heard before but that were always on target. Neal had a healthy curiosity, but the landscape of East Tennessee or the beauty of perfectly shaped produce at the Mennonite markets were universe enough for him. Neal could be very sentimental about people especially before age and illness took their toll. Those who lived at a distance and saw him only every few months remember his poignant leave taking ritual. He would admonish everyone not to say "good-bye", but rather, "See ya"! So, dear Neal, we will not now say good-bye but"See ya"! According to Neal's wishes, he requested no funeral or memorial service and wanted to be cremated.