Eldon Lavern Clark
January 11, 1931 – February 20, 2025

Eldon Lavern Clark died on February 20, 2025 in Novi, MI. He was born on January 11, 1931 in St. George, KS of farmers Ralph Elmer Clark and Lillian Emily Marie Hammarlund Clark.

Eldon is preceded in death by his devoted wife of 70 years, Margaret "Ginger" Clark. He is survived by his son, David Wilson Clark of Oak Park, MI; daughter Jean Shekter "Trixie" and son-in-law Cliff Shekter (Major, U.S. Army, Retired) of Green Valley, AZ.

Eldon served his country proudly earning the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in Infantry Branch of the U.S. Army after humble beginnings as a cook with the Kansas Army National Guard. His service included a tour in Vietnam, 1968-69.

After earning his doctorate in higher education administration, specializing in art education, he joined Michigan State University teaching and administering research in medical education. He spoke fondly of his interactions with students in his medical ethics course.

Eldon's legacy is through his life-long love of ceramics. In 1969 he and a small band of fellow ceramicists founded the Greater Lansing Potters' Guild. For over 50 years Eldon committed himself to the Guild, serving as a board member, president, and Guild director.

Eldon loved the Lord. Inspired by his dad, Eldon loved Bible study, fellowship, and service. Those who knew him will remember his smile and genuine care and curiosity of others. He will be missed.

Eldon is also survived by his grandsons David Anthony Clark (Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Air Force) of Fairchild Air Force Base, WA and Steven Everett Clark (veteran, U.S. Marine Corps) of Del Rio, TX.

Eldon is also preceded in death by his sister Esther Pachosa, and by his niece Sharyon Minishi Schwartzman.

He is also survived by his nieces and nephews Stephen Pachosa, Randy Pachosa, Judy Pachosa, Jane Minishi, Edward Wilson, Geraldine Winiarski; and by his 5 great grandchildren, Morgan, Maci, Miley, David and Luke.

Visitation will be held on April 11, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Fox Run Senior Living Community, 41200 Fox Run Road in the Derby Room at the Belmont Clubhouse.

A Remembrance Service will be on April 11 at 2:00 PM in the Derby Room.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Wounded Warrior Project or to Disabled American Veterans .