John R. Clark, 95, passed away Tuesday, Apr. 20 at his home in Vestal, NY, after a long and well-lived life.

He was born in Walton, NY, the son of the late Mary and David William Clark. He was predeceased by a son, John David, and a sister, Marian Lane of Sidney, NY. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jeanne, Vestal, NY; two daughters and sons-in-law, Pamela and Charles Surratt, Golden, CO; Melissa and Stephen Rowell, Apalachin, NY; and four grandchildren, Melissa Surratt, Denver, CO; Charles Surratt, Colorado Springs, CO; Spencer and Alexander Rowell, Apalachin, NY.

After graduating from Walton High School in 1934, he attended Marietta College in Ohio, and then transferred to Syracuse University where he graduated Cum Laude with a degree in journalism in 1938. During summer vacations he worked at the Reporter Company, a newspaper and legal printing firm in Walton. After earning his degree, he began working full time as a reporter. He joined the Air Force and was stationed in England as a First Lieutenant during WW2.

He was editor of the Walton Reporter for many years; later becoming president of the Reporter Company, and eventually owner of the company. He was a member of the advisory committee of the Otschodela Council, Boy Scouts of America; member of the Truman C. Tobey Post, the

American Legion; and he was awarded the citation of honor by the American Legion. He was a former director of the New York Press Association; served two terms on the Delaware Valley Hospital Board of Directors; was a member of the College Council of SUNY Delhi; and served on the Board of Directors, College Foundation, Delhi Tech. He was named outstanding associate liaison officer for the United States Air Force Academy; retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force Reserve; and served on the Board of Directors of the National Bank of Delaware County for 21 years.

He was an active member of the United Presbyterian Church, Walton, for 75 years, and recently joined the Vestal United Methodist Church. He enjoyed traveling, was an avid reader of newspapers and mysteries, and was a connoisseur of fine automobiles. He also was a ham radio operator, with a call sign of KA2ZPM.

A graveside service will be held at 2 PM on Saturday, April 24, 2010 at the Walton Cemetery, with the Rev. Dr. Mary Ricketts, officiating. There will be full military honors.

Contributions may be made to Vestal United Methodist Church, or the United Presbyterian Church, Walton in his name.