Frederick Arthur Clark, Jr.

Frederick Arthur Clark, Jr., 79, of Bristol, Connecticut, passed away peacefully at home on July 24, 2026. He was born on November 17, 1946, in Decatur, Illinois, to Frederick A. Clark, Sr. and Madge (Songer) Clark.

Fred graduated from the University of Illinois and worked at University of Northern Colorado in Greeley and the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor before beginning a successful career in the automatic door industry. He worked for more than 25 years at Stanley Access Technologies in Farmington, Connecticut, first as a purchasing agent and then as the purchasing manager, where he was respected by colleagues for his dedication and quick mind. After retirement, he embraced one of his favorite roles—serving as the devoted chauffeur for his family, especially his beloved grandchildren, a responsibility he accepted with pride and joy.

A man of deep Christian faith, Fred was a longtime  member of Trinity Episcopal Church in Bristol, now Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Plainville. Over the years, he faithfully served the congregation in many capacities, including as Senior Warden, a Stephen Minister, choir member (including the Bell Tower Singers acapella quartet), lay reader, and chalice bearer. In 2004, as Senior Warden, he stood alongside the Rev. Donald L. Helmandollar and the Connecticut Six during the congregation's decision to separate from the Episcopal Diocese of Connecticut over theological convictions, reflecting his steadfast commitment to his faith, Biblical authority, and the church community.

Fred participated in several Emmaus and Cursillo weekends, and was the Rector of the first co-ed Episcopal Cursillo in Connecticut in 1989. He found great joy in studying Scripture and rarely missed an opportunity to participate in Bible study. He was passionate about learning and sharing biblical and theological knowledge, and he delighted in thoughtful conversations about faith. Those who knew him appreciated his willingness to discuss ideas at length. His faith was not only something he believed, but something he lived each day through service, compassion, and fellowship.

Fred lived an active and fulfilling life. He played slow-pitch softball and was an avid golfer. He coached Amy’s softball team, and when Tom played basketball at Immanuel Lutheran School, he kept the books and worked the clock for the games. He loved spending summers camping and winters on cruises. He enjoyed hanging out, talking theology, and grabbing lunch with his best buddy, Dave Robinson. He was an enthusiastic reader and tv-watcher.

Above all, Fred treasured his family. He is survived by his wife, Claudia Clark; his daughter, Amy Clark-Garcia and her husband, Jose, of Bristol, Connecticut; his son, Thomas Clark and his wife, Candice, of Gardner, Massachusetts; his grandchildren, Belén, Angela (Lauren), Allison, Margaret, Caleb, and Josephine; and his great-grandson, Ismael.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick A. Clark, Sr. and Madge Clark of Springfield, Ohio, and by his beloved daughter, Allison Ashley Ellen Clark of Bristol, Connecticut.

Our family would like to express our deepest gratitude to the incredible nurses and staff of the Hartford HealthCare at Home Hospice program for the compassionate care and kindness they showed throughout his journey. A very special thank you goes to Tamara, whose warmth, dedication, and unwavering support brought comfort not only to him but to our entire family. We are also profoundly grateful to his aide, Celia, whose gentle care, compassion, and attentiveness ensured he was always treated with dignity, respect, and love. Their extraordinary kindness made an immeasurable difference during a difficult time, and we will always remember the exceptional care they gave him.

Fred will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his talkative nature, his generous heart, and his deep love for family and friends. His kindness, integrity, and steadfast devotion to God, his family, and his church left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

A memorial service will be held at Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Plainville, Connecticut, on Saturday August 15 at 10:30 am. Friends and family are invited to gather in celebration of Fred's life and the enduring legacy of faith, love, and service he leaves behind. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Holy Trinity Anglican Church at 18 E. Main St. Plainville, CT..