Obituary of David Keith Clerk
David Keith Clerk in his 93rd year, passed away peacefully March 9, 2024.
Loving Father and Father-in-law of Judy Clerk & Bob Pearson, Carolyn & Bruce Anderson, Frank Carenza, Stephanie Clerk & Jean-Luc Cortat. Grandfather Bubba of Jessica (Matt) Boudreau (Anderson), Micheal (Jenna) Anderson, Luke Pearson, Marc (Meaghan) Pearson, David (Sophia) Carenza, Emma Carenza and Vanessa Cortat. Great Grandfather Bubba of Piper & Tommy Anderson and Archie Boudreau. Husband of Mary Lou Cote of Arizona.
Predeceased by wife Vilma Clerk, daughter Kathy-Ann Carenza and brothers Michael and Anthony Clerk.
Born in Jamaica, emigrated in 1952, David and Vilma made Canada a home with four daughters. He worked many years at Cluett & Peabody (Arrow Shirts) moved to London as VP of manufacturing then Holand Landing retiring there as VP of Manufacturing for a uniform manufacturer in North York.
He was one of the first employer leaders to mentor youth in the start up of Junior Achievement in Kitchener as well as coached his daughters in ringette and soccer.
David was an active church member on the board of management at St. Columba Anglican Church in Waterloo, St. Micheals of All Angels in London and member of St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Southampton. He had a wonderful voice and enjoyed delivering readings on Sunday mornings.
David’s moto was “there was nothing that couldn’t be learned”. He taught himself with the help of a set of Popular Mechanics how to frame, plumb and wire so he could realize Vilma and his dream to live on the water. In 1957 he started construction of Clerk’s Cabana in Southampton. Tinkering in his workshop, he could build anything from a record player to a row boat and everything in-between and beyond. If you wanted something Dad would build or fix it.
Our family would like to express our deepest gratitude for the excellent and loving care from the 3rd floor north staff at Lee Manor LTC in Owen Sound.
Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Parkinson Canada on David’s tribute page at www.erbgood.com