Douglas Earl Clarke, 72

Douglas Earl Clarke, 72, passed away on July 14, 2022, in Newton, Massachusetts.

Doug was the only son born to Verna Lou White on April 1, 1950, in Somers, Montana. He attended elementary school in Somers and graduated from Flathead High School in 1968. After graduation, he enrolled in classes at Flathead Valley Community College and served in the National Guard. He transferred to the University of Montana before earning a bachelor’s degree from National College in Rapid City, South Dakota, after which he moved to Phoenix with his wife, Glenda Lee Kelly, and three sons.

Doug worked in the heavy-duty trucking industry for more than 30 years. While living in Arizona, he became an avid fan of the Phoenix Suns and the Arizona Diamondbacks, and enjoyed golfing, off-roading, and car shows with a close circle of friends.

When his marriage ended, he dedicated his life to his sons Jaime, Jeremy and Jared. As a boy living in Montana, he never thought he’d go east of the Mississippi, but he traveled with his sons to England, Scotland and Ireland, to New York City, and all throughout New England.

Upon retirement, he moved to Newton to be close to his only grandson, and to work part time for his son and daughter-in-law’s bookstore, Newtonville Books. He also became a fervent Boston Red Sox fan and enjoyed many games at Fenway Park.

Universally loved for his kindness and selflessness, he will be greatly missed by those whose lives he touched. He leaves behind three sons, Jaime Clarke (Mary Cotton), Jeremy Clarke, and Jared Clarke; a grandson, Max; and many cherished cousins with whom he grew up.

Doug was preceded in death by his mother; his grandfather, Murlen White; grandmother, Beryl White; and an aunt and uncle.

A private memorial will be held at a later date.