John Gilbert Clark (Jack), of Osterville, Massachusetts, born March 20, 1945, a proud native of Brooklyn, New York, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 17, 2026, at the age of 81.

A Vietnam veteran, Jack honorably served his country as a paratrooper with the 173rd Airborne Brigade from 1963 to 1966, carrying that sense of duty and discipline throughout his life. Following his military service, he continued a career of service as an officer with the New York City Police Department, where he earned the respect of his colleagues and the communities he served.

A dedicated animal lover, Jack found great comfort and companionship in the many animals he cared for throughout his life. Jack was a lifelong car enthusiast with a deep appreciation for performance and classic cars, with a few favorites that stood out—his gold Pontiac GTO, a Charger R/T, an Indy 500 Corvette Pace Car, and a Z-28 Camaro the family affectionately called “Z-Boom.” From working on cars with friends in his youth to proudly showing them at local car shows, it remained both a hobby and a lasting passion.

Jack was a devoted family man who showed true love by willing the good of each member of his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Joan Clark (nee Fedullo), whose partnership was the foundation of his life; his daughter, Jacqueline Clark Tawney, (Craig), and his beloved grandson, Colton Clark-Edward Tawney of Ohio; his son, James Clark, and his beloved grandchildren, Emerson Rose Clark and Joseph Clark, of Illinois; his sisters, Carol Clark-Checkett (Nick Bilotti); Dawn Schollin (Rick); niece's Jamie McLaughlin (Michael), Julie Checkett, Amy Strutt (Ben) and nephew Kurt Schollin (Kelly) and his former brother in law Chester P. Checkett Jr.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Joseph Clark; his mother, Hope Tinn-Clark; his brothers, James Joseph Clark, Jr. and Robert David Clark; and his cherished nephew, Chester P. Checkett Jr.

A private memorial service and celebration of life will be on June 26, 2026 at Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne.

In lieu of flowers, kindly send donations to the American Parkinson's Disease Association (APDA) or Disabled American Veterans (DAV). 2 Timothy 4:7 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

Sending love and comfort to all who loved Jack, an American hero to our country and his family…may he rest in peace!

“We weep for that which has been delight” I will see you again baby brother; rest in peace.

May you find peace in the love and memories to be shared with the family in the days and years to come. It’s little consolation for the loss of Jack but i know we will have lots to smile about. He lived his life on his terms, fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith as you said. Jack came from the quiet generation but I’m guessing that did not apply to his cars, motorcycles, Doo Wop music, and the shouting out of ‘Geronimo’ every time he pulled his ripcord. We will miss him but take comfort in knowing that you and the kids were there for him and that he has found a well deserved peace.

What an incredible life and legacy he leaves. Proud to have met him.

Dear Jimmy, I’m so sorry for your loss. I will miss all the Jack stories that you and Michael would always tell me.