Donald H. Clark, 78, of Damariscotta, died June 30 after a brief illness.
He was born in Portland on Oct. 2, 1933, the son of Haddon and Alta (Keith) Clark.
In 1952, Donald graduated from Westbrook High School, where he performed in several plays and was voted “Class Actor.” Following school, he went into full-time business with his father as a carpenter and cabinetmaker. He became known as a master craftsman and designed and built homes, kitchens, cabinets and other projects for many prominent southern Maine residents. He also designed several churches including the New Canaan Baptist Church in New Brunswick, Canada, and Windham Assembly of God in Windham. His final building project was his role in the completion of Lifespan Family Healthcare in Newcastle.
On June 21, 1958 he married Marilyn Ruth Clark, daughter of Philip and Bernice Clark of Portland, and settled in Cape Elizabeth. In 1967 they moved to Gray where they began a 40-year restoration of a 200-year-old landmark brick home and barn. Donald and Marilyn were active in the church and in community service where Don served as president of the Jaycees from 1966-67.
He enjoyed woodworking in his shop in Gray and his attention to detail was a mark of his craftsmanship. Don established many routines, not the least of which was a daily breakfast stop at Cole Farms in Gray to catch up on the local news with his many friends.
Don loved his family and relatives and took joy in his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was a founding member of Windham Assembly of God and Windham Christian Academy where he served on the Finance Committee for many years. He exhibited a quiet but abiding personal faith that was lived out by his actions and words.
After 45 years of life in Gray, Don and Marilyn moved to Damariscotta to be closer to family where Don was more easily able to provide the care his wife needed.
He was predeceased by his brother, Keith Clark of Cumberland; sister, Lorena Clark Allen of Windham; and brother, Roy H. Clark of Gorham.
Donald is survived by his wife of 54 years, Marilyn Ruth Clark; son, Roy Allen Clark and wife Maria Manos Clark of Otisfield; daughter, Karen Clark Newhook of Long Pond, Penn.; son, Michael Hutchins Clark, MD and wife Rebecca Erde Clark of Newcastle; as well as 13 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Visiting hours will be held 5-7 p.m., Thurs., July 5 at the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta. Funeral service 11 a.m., Fri., July 6 at the Lincoln County Assembly of God, 672 Main St., Damariscotta.
Condolences, and messages for the family, may be expressed by visiting www.StrongHancock.com.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, Damariscotta.
