“So, a photographer, a chef, and an eagle are walking toward the Pearly Gates…”

If Clark were writing this story, that’s probably how it would begin. He was one of the funniest people you could ever meet, always ready with a story or a quick joke. Some were groaners, some were hilarious, and many were classic dad jokes—but they always lifted the mood. Anyone who knew Clark knew that a visit or phone call wasn’t truly over until he delivered his familiar line: “Just a quick story before I let you go…”

Clark was born in Greeley, Colorado, and was his mother Lucille Reichert Miller’s “special little man.” His stepfather, Melvin Reeh, taught him the essentials of being a good man, along with home repair and automobile maintenance—skills Clark carried throughout his life.

He was a big brother to Rhonda (Reeh) Sothman and Brenda Reeh, and—depending on who you ask—a pretty great babysitter. Their years together were filled with adventures, magic tricks, and plenty of laughter. He loved his mom and sisters deeply.

Clark’s teenage years were difficult following the loss of Melvin, but with the love and guidance of the three strong women in his life, he grew into a kind and principled man. He was always polite and respectful toward women—and, fittingly, was surrounded by them for much of his life.

His second marriage became an epic love story. After a four-year courtship, he married the love of his life, Martine. In doing so, he happily gained four sister-in-laws and a mother-in-law who adored him: Melinda Taylor, Marissa Helzer, Mickaela Earle-Ross, Marina Hank Meador, and Mikki Earle. More women—and he wouldn’t have had it any other way. Clark and Martine were married just three days shy of 35 years.

Clark had a wide range of interests and approached each with the mind of a natural-born engineer and an unmatched work ethic. He often said he needed to “sample” different career paths to satisfy his many passions. Photography, music, working with his hands, and cars were lifelong loves.

In the 1970s, he began working for Western Electric (Bell/AT&T) as a line worker and quickly rose through the ranks to become a Business Manager and Union President for the local IBEW.

In the 1980s, ready for a change, he took a position as a groundskeeper at an apartment complex. Within 18 months, he became Maintenance Supervisor for a 400+ unit community. Alongside his close friend Mark Benson, he helped build an all-star team that earned numerous awards from the management company—an unprecedented achievement.

In the 1990s, Clark joined Martine and Mickaela to launch a creative services company, where he worked as a manager, salesperson, and photographer. He continued running SYS-Graphics until 2001, when Mickaela passed away and he and Martine sold the business. Even then, Clark’s creative spirit could not be contained.

In the 2000s, he joined Lowe’s as a part-time employee, but within months became Supervisor of the Lumber Department—a familiar pattern in his life.

By 2007, the physical demands of his work began to take their toll, and his creative passion called him in a new direction. He retired to become a full-time photographer. With his natural charm and ability to light up any room, he built strong connections and found success in real estate and product photography. Still, his true love was scenic photography—especially clouds and trees. He created beautiful annual calendars and a collection of note cards featuring his work.

Throughout their 35 years together, Clark and Martine spent nearly all their free time side by side, often building businesses together. They traveled across America by car, discovering places many people overlook—always laughing, taking pictures, and making lasting memories. They came within five states of visiting them all—Iowa, Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Hawaii—before Clark’s health made travel difficult.

Clark left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He was a strong yet gentle man with an unforgettable sense of humor. He will be deeply missed, but as long as those who knew him think of him from time to time, a part of him will always be with us.

A celebration of life will be held June 23 at 1:00 p.m. at Adams County Fairgrounds, Pavilion B.