September 1, 1942 to March 19, 2023
With great sadness, the family of Laurie James Clarke announce his sudden and unexpected passing at 80 years young at the Health Sciences Centre.
He leaves to mourn, his beloved wife of 57 years, Peggy, daughter Shannon (Frankie) Fekete, Debra (Raymond) and son, Bobby Joe. Grandsons, Cody, Keenan and Athan. Siblings, Alec, Doug, Kay, Verna, great Aunt Clara Donald and, sister-in-law Gail Joyce and extended families.
He was predeceased by his mother, Dorothy Doughie, grandparents, Cynthia and James Clarke, Uncles Jimmy, Hector, Huey and Bert (Margie), siblings, Peggy, Richard, Ronnie, Dale, Dennis, David, Janice, Danny and, Hughie and in-laws, Isabel and Luther Yates.
Dad was born in Selkirk, Manitoba and raised in East Lower Fort Garry by his grandparents. Dad grew up alongside his Auntie Clara, Uncles Jimmy and Hector, and Cousins Robert and Robin on the Clarke property across the river from Lower Fort Garry.
Dad was an upholsterer by trade, but having hurt his back went back to school where he took accounting. He sold cars and eventually became a courier for many years before retiring at 69.
Dad was an avid golfer, playing at least 100 games a season during his retirement, and getting two hole in ones at Selkirk Golf Course. He was quite the pool shark and known around the city for his skills. The Kurpen Kues had the pleasure of having dad on their team and earned themselves a trip to Vegas to play in a tournament. Although, they didn’t win the game, they won for Best Dressed and their photo hung in the big stadium the following year at the next tournament.
Dad also enjoyed playing the slots and bingo with mom every now and then. He also enjoyed playing crib with his partner Bucky. He loved to tell a good joke, even if it was only him laughing. He had a love of country music and when he went out for a ride, you could always hear him coming back a block away with his music blaring. Dad always had a big smile and those blues eyes could charm anyone.
No words could truly be expressed on how we are feeling at this time, but one thing is for sure, is that we love you dad and will miss you tremendously. Our memories will last a lifetime.
As per dad’s wishes, no service will be held. Cremation has taken place and a private burial will be held at a later date.
Hey dad, what do you call a dog who does magic? A Labra-Cadabrador
Love your family
I knew Laurie for 60 years he was a great guy and a great pool player.
I’m sure he will be missed.
Peggy, Shannon. Debbie. Bobby Joe and families. I am very sorry for your loss. Laurie will be really missed. Sending you all lots of hugs and love. You’re in my thoughts and prayers.
So sorry to your family, our condolences. From Dean & Donna Dunning
Our deepest condolencences Peggy, and to all of the family. Laurie will be deeply missed, may you hold all of his memories close to your hearts. Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this most difficult time. Sending you all of our love. Karen and Bill
My condolences Shannon Deb, BobbyJoe and Auntie Peggy. I love you you all.
Very sorry for your loss. I worked with him for a short time and thought he was a funny and kind man
Laurie will be missed BUT never forgotten. I’m so lucky to have known him through his wife Peggy and his two beautiful daughters Shanon and Debbie. Until we met again in Jesus name I pray 🙏🏼 Amen
Our condolences to the Family , always loved seeing Laurie up town as we would have a good laugh, He lit up the world when he smiled.
Sorry, to hear of Laurie’s passing, he was a friend and a good guy. he will be missed.
Sorry to hear of Laurie’s passing, he was a friend, my condolences to the family, I know he will be missed.
Peggy, my deepest condolences to you and your family. He always made me smile every time we met during the short time I’ve know him. He will be surely missed.
Very sorry to hear of your loss, our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Sincere condolences to cousin Peggy, Shan, Sissy and Bobbie Joe.
love and prayers from Wendall ,Beryl and Emily
My thoughts are with you all during this time. May his memory bring you comfort.