Richard J. Clark Jr.

Age 68 of Martin Lake. Loving Husband, Father, Grandpa Rico, Brother and Friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 2, 2024. Preceded in death by mother, Blanche and father-in-law, Eugene Emerson. Survived by loving wife of 45 years, Tia; children Christopher (Ashley), Katie (Nicholas) Hopp, Zachariah (Christina); grandchildren Emerson, Ella, Lillian, Lucille, Ford, Francesca & one on the way; siblings Cindy (Mark) Hanna, Greg (Jean), Nanci (Tim) Flor; mother-in-law, Jackie Emerson; many other family members and friends. Rick’s kindness, selflessness, work ethic, and overwhelmingly positive attitude left an impact on everyone he met. His ability to connect with people and to make each interaction feel genuine is rare, but came naturally to him. He spent 40 years doing what he loved – creating works of art with his tile and stone work in clients’ homes, many of whom he forged lasting relationships with. He loved living on the lake and meticulously maintaining his yard and beach. He left daily notes for Tia, and called or stopped by to see his kids just to say hi. He absolutely adored his grandchildren, and they equally adored him. The true joy they brought one another in the precious time they spent together has created for them a perfect and lasting memory of their Grandpa Rico. He was truly one of a kind. While it seems impossible to know how to go on without him, those of us blessed by having him in our lives can continue his legacy by emulating the virtues he demonstrated each and every day. A celebration of Rick’s life will be held from 3 to 7pm on Friday, February 16th, with a short service at 6pm at the Hugo American Legion: 5383 140th St. N., Hugo. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to a cancer research or support organization of your choice, or to the family to be donated in Rick’s name to support other families finding themselves in their last days with a loved one. Please leave an audio recording to pay tribute to Rick: