Irene Jane (Porter) Clarke Obituary
Surrounded by the family that she loved so dearly, Irene Jane Clarke passed into the presence of her Lord on Monday April 18, 2022.
Preceded in death by her husband and best friend, John Herbert Clarke, and her beloved son, John Brian Clarke (Julie). Loving mother of Joe (Wendy) Clarke and Jeff (Lisa) Clarke.
Cherished Grandma of Jennifer (Bryan), Rebekkah (Dan), Hillary (Devin), Laura, Courtney (Brett), Conner (Christina), Casey (Heather), Charlotte (Timothy), Christopher (Kaylee) and Amelie. She also loved visiting with and doting on her 10 great grandchildren.
Born in Flint, Michigan as Irene Porter, she was the oldest of six children and is survived by her dear sisters June (Ken) and Jean as well as her brother Tim (Helen). After graduating from nursing school, she married John Clarke in August of 1956, celebrating one of the first weddings held in the newly built Dexter Street Gospel Chapel. The two settled in Sarnia, Ontario and Chattanooga, Tennessee to raise their family.
During her career as a Nurse, she worked on the Psychiatric Unit where her bright and generous spirit endeared her to her co-workers and patients alike. After retirement, she devoted herself as a dedicated caregiver to her husband until his passing in 2010. She never complained or considered it to be work, but instead viewed it as an act of love to “Her John”. Their devotion and love offered all those who knew them the ultimate blueprint of a life that was filled with faith, patience, and love. Irene had a zest for life and especially valued the close friendships she made at Temple Baptist Church. She also loved Pioneer Girls, volunteering in the church nursery, spending time in her garden, gospel music, and all the treasured summers spent with her children and grandchildren on the shores of Lake Huron in Tawas, Michigan.
The Clarke Family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff at St.Joseph’s Hospice for their excellent care. A small private gathering will be held for immediate family only to celebrate the life of Irene. Sympathy may be expressed through donations to St. Joseph’s Hospice Sarnia.
