William C. Clark

William C. Clark “Bill”, a longtime resident of Manchester, passed away on July 20, 2024, at the age of 95, surrounded by loved ones, at Community Hospice House, Merrimack. He was born on July 9, 1929, in New Rochelle, New York to the late Gerald H. and Dorothy (Chequer) Clark. He graduated from Manchester Central High School before proudly serving in the United States Army in post-war Berlin as a Cryptanalyst. Bill enlisted in the Army National Guard and was called during the Cuban Missile Crisis, ultimately achieving the rank of Master Sergeant.

 Bill then embarked on a successful career in grocery distribution, sales and operations beginning primarily with Grand Union (Champagne) Stores and culminating with District Manager for central and southern NH Markets. His strong work ethic led him to continue in this line of work into his eighties. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, often spending time in nature and tending to his yard or indulging in his love of bird watching, dressed in his favorite flannel. However, his greatest pride and joy in life came from being with his family, creating cherished memories at family dinners and celebrations.

 Bill was predeceased by his adored wife, Jean (Learmouth) Clark after celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary in 2014; and his sister Janet Buswell, in 2019. He is lovingly remembered by his greatest “pride and joys”: daughters, Cheryl Cornish (Craig) and Deborah Covatis (Billy), all of Manchester; his grandchildren, Jennifer Donovan Fox (Greg) of Bow, Nick Covatis (Kathleen) of Londonderry, and Scott Covatis (Rose Poggio) of Plaistow; three great-grandchildren, Kylie, Lily, Emma; and his beloved cat, Loki.

 A graveside service will be held to honor Bill’s life on Thursday, August 1, 2024 at 3:00pm at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen. In lieu of flowers, donation can be made in Bill’s name to Merrimack Community Hospice House, where he received compassionate care or Pope Memorial SPCA. The Clark family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Elliot Hospital for their care and support.

 A private Celebration of Bill’s life will follow at a later date according to his wishes.