John C. Clarke Jr.

John Calvin Clarke, Jr., 70, of Canton, New York, died peacefully on January 19, 2026, at Massena Memorial Hospital, with his family by his side.

John was born on March 9, 1955, in Wichita Falls, Texas, to John Calvin Clarke, Sr., and Joan (VanDerBeken).

John was a good man. A proud man of faith, John lived a life centered on service to others.

Throughout his life, John found meaning in contributing where he was needed. He was employed for many years as the bookkeeper at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, a role he valued and took pride in. Alongside his wife, Darlene, he also dedicated many years to serving their community as first responders.

From his youth through later adulthood, sports remained an important part of John’s life. He bowled in a league, played softball, and continued playing open-gym basketball until only a few years ago. John also loved spending time outdoors and enjoyed hiking with his hiking group, where he found companionship, fresh air, and simple joy.

At home, John cherished simple routines. He made breakfast for his wife almost every day and prepared her lunch for work until she retired. They enjoyed reading the Watertown Daily Times each day, watching Yankees baseball and cable television shows. They bickered and they loved their time together.

John graduated from Knox Memorial School in 1973. Later, he received his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from SUNY Potsdam, and his Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Clarkson University. Graduating with honors from both.

In recent years, Alzheimer’s dementia greatly affected John’s daily life. Though the illness changed much, his love for his family remained present and evident in the ways he smiled, showed affection, and found comfort in being with those closest to him.

He was known by many names; John, Jack, and Uncle Corky. To the most special people, he was known as Dad, Papa John or Grandpa. No matter the name, he will be remembered for his quiet presence and consistent care for those around him. He showed his love through his actions. He would gladly chauffeur his grandchildren, take them wherever they wanted to go, and treat them to whatever they wished to eat. Time spent with him and Grandma Darlene was filled with laughter, comfort, and generosity, and it was no surprise that the grandchildren wished to live with them, and in time, each did.

John was married to Mary Joyce Blackburn on April 5, 1975. She predeceased him in 2002. He later reunited with Darlene Brassard at a high school reunion, and they were married on June 5, 2004.

He is survived by his wife, Darlene; his daughter, Amy Clarke, and her husband John of Canton, NY; his stepchildren Angela (Allen) Grant of Hermon, NY; Stephanie Davison and companion Scott Baxter of Edwards, NY; Brock Davison and companion Kim French of Hermon, NY; and Kaylee Hartley; his grandchildren, Mary, Luke, Trey, Kolby, Brianna and Aria; his sister, Joni; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, sister Cathy Folsom, and brother Danny Clarke.

Calling hours for John will be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the O’Leary Funeral Home, Canton. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, January 23, 2026 at St. Mary’s Church at 11:00 am. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s memory to the Canton Volunteer Fire Department, 77 Riverside Dr; Canton, New York 13617 or online at www.cantonfd.org.

Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.olearyfuneralservice.com. Arrangements are under the care of the O’Leary Funeral Service of Canton.