Obituary for Joe Clarke

Ponca City Now - July 15, 2017 9:28 am

Joe Clarke

(October 21, 1947 – July 14, 2017)

Joe Clarke, a lifelong resident of Nardin, Oklahoma, passed away July 14, 2017, at the age of 69 years. Joe was born on October 21, 1947, in Blackwell, Oklahoma, to Jay and Hazel (Tolle) Clarke. He attended Nardin School through the eighth grade and graduated from Blackwell High School in 1965. After graduating from Panhandle State University in 1970, he returned to Nardin to resume farming with his brother Cal. Farming was very often a team effort for the Tolle family, be it labor or advice. Joe and Cal worked closely with their four Tolle uncles in the fields or over the kitchen table. Cal and Joe continued to farm until their retirement in 2011.

Joe is survived by his brother, Cal Clarke of Nardin; and a loving family of many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his aunt, Ica Tolle. Joe was blessed to have many uncles and aunts who also went before him; Lester and Dorothy Tolle, Earl and Martha Tolle, Bud and Wilma Tolle, and Charlie and Izetta Tolle.

Joe Clarke leaves his family with many wonderful memories of his wit, his wisdom and his gentle spirit. After a lengthy illness, he passed away peacefully at his favorite place on earth – home.

At Joe’s request there will be no memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society in c/o Roberts and Son Funeral Home, 120 W. Padon, Blackwell, Oklahoma 74631.