Christopher J. Clarke

To his Sons, Christopher Clarke was simply the greatest father in the world.

From their earliest memories, to their final conversations with him, there was never a moment when they questioned how much he loved them. He devoted his life to being the best father he could be, and he made it his mission to give them every opportunity possible. Whether it was through his support, encouragement, guidance or the countless sacrifices he made without ever asking for recognition, he always put family first.

Chris taught his sons so much throughout their lives, not just through his words, but through the way he lived his life. He showed them the value of hard work, loyalty, kindness and perseverance. He believed in his family, often more than they believed in themselves, and he was always there when anyone needed him. Knowing that he was in their corner gave his family the confidence to take chances, pursue their dreams, and become the individuals they are today.

He was someone who was loved deeply, but he was also someone who was admired and respected. His sons looked up to him not only because he was their father, but because of the person he was. The example he set and the lessons he shared will stay with them forever.

And while his family will always remember his wisdom and strength, they will also remember his sense of humor. Chris always had a way of making anyone laugh, sometimes intentionally and sometimes without even realizing it. He could walk into any room and immediately make friends, find someone to converse with, and make connections that seemed to last a lifetime. This ability to strike up a conversation with anyone was one of Chris' greatest gifts. His warmth, genuine interest in others, and huge heart drew people in no matter where he went. He knew everyone and everyone knew him.

Chris was born and raised in Hollywood, Florida. After graduating high school, he proudly joined and served in the United States Air Force and began a lifetime of service, hard work, and adventure. Chris was truly a jack of all trades, taking on many roles throughout his life, including project manager on construction sites in Florida, restaurant manager in California, and a caretaker in Pennsylvania. No matter the job, he brought dedication, kindness and a willingness to help others.

Chris was also an amazing grandfather. Pop Pop to his only grandson, Nicholas. One of his most talked-about and cherished memories was giving Nicholas his first bath. To Nicholas, Pop Pop was the man who helped raised him in his early years, helped to teach him life's basic lessons, tying his shoes, riding a bike and how to yell at the TV when sports were on. As much as Nicholas meant the world to Chris, Chris meant the world to Nicholas as well. Being Pop Pop was truly Chris' greatest joy in life.

Chris also adored his two beautiful daughters-in-law. He loved to talk about Jeremey's wife Lisa and Kevin's wife Jessica. Chris would always ask about his sons' wives and how they were doing well before he would ask about his sons. His sense of caring and the size of his heart was unmatched. He was proud to see the life his sons had built with the people they loved.

Most recently, Chris made his home in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania, with his loving partner of 15 years, Martha Jean Drusedum. The two met while caring for Chris' Uncle Duke, who lived till 102. They built a life filled with love, companionship and cherished memories, including sharing their beloved cat, Silver and dogs Momo and Jackson. Chris was a die-hard Miami Dolphins fan and, thanks to Martha Jean, became a part-time Eagles fan if they weren't playing the Dolphins. During his years in the Greater Philadelphia area, he also developed a strong admiration for John Kruk, which sparked his passion for the Philadelphia Phillies and made him a devoted fan. He also turned Martha Jean on to a new sport. A die-hard Phillies fan, he introduced her to his second passion after football, Nascar.

The truth is that words cannot fully describe what Chris meant to his family. His influence is woven into every part of their lives, often in ways they do not recognize or understand. The love he gave, the values he instilled, and the memories shared with him have shaped his family and who they will continue to become.

His family is heartbroken that is his no longer here with us, but is endlessly grateful that he was their dad, partner, grandfather brother and uncle. He will be missed everyday, loved always, and his family will do their best to honor him by living the lessons he taught them.

Chris is survived by Martha Jean Drusedum, his loving partner, sons Jeremy Clarke (Lisa) and Kevin Clarke (Jessica), grandson Nicholas Clarke, brother Mark Clarke (Leette), cousin Dr. Sandra Bloom, nephews Jason Clarke (Lauren), Ryan Clarke (Michelle), and Cody Clarke, and numerous great nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his parents, Patricia and Robert, his brother Jeff, his very special Uncle Duke and Aunt Dot Treen, as well has be beloved grandparents, Charles and Marguerite Treen.

A Celebration of Life will be scheduled for the fall of 2026.

In lieu of flowers, donations could be made to the Prostate Cancer Foundation in Chris' memory, as he was a 6 1/2 year Prostate Cancer Survivor.         www.PCF.org