In Memory of Ezra T. Clark-- A Fortunate Fellow

My grandfather, Ezra T. Clark, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, July 19, 2008 in Salt Lake City. Grandpa was my last surviving grandparent and the only living great grandparent to my children. Grandpa had lived a long and wonderful life and his example and legacy will continue to live on through his posterity. He was born December 3, 1914 in Farmington, Utah. Despite the poverty of his childhood and youth and perhaps because of it, Grandpa lived and exemplified the principles of hard work, integrity and generosity. I will never forget this--his legacy--to me and my children.

As a child, I recall vividly Grandpa's Bountiful home. It was magical to me and I always looked forward to visits there. Looking back, I remember fondly my favorite room in his home, the downstairs library. I'm not sure what drew me to the room, whether it was the lush velvet purple arm chairs or hundreds of books which lined the walls. Whatever it was, I felt welcomed there by Grandpa. I will always remember the little things, like the time Grandpa voiced his frustrations to me about the raccoons which seemed to sneak through the fireplace in the room.

Years later, when I met my future husband, I was thrilled to hear of Grandpa's association in the Utah State Senate with Dan's father. Not surprising, both Grandpa and Karl had mutual admiration and respect for one another. As a result, I felt I had Grandpa's nod of approval in marrying Dan. It pleased me greatly that Grandpa would approve of someone I loved so much.

My tenderest memories of Grandpa will live on in pictures of him with me and my own children. No matter the milestone in my life, Grandpa was there. There were no long or in depth conversations. Instead, there was a bear hug and a kiss and in later years, a tender kiss on the hand. Most recently, our family had the privilege of seeing Grandpa and Geri at our youngest daughter's baptism. No surprise, Grandpa and Geri also attended our firstborn daughter's baby blessing sixteen years ago. These "bookend" events, if you will, these milestones in the lives of my children, were made more special with the presence of a great grandfather. Grandpa Clark, Ezra T. Clark, indeed was a great man and a fortunate fellow.