Ronald James Clark

It is with great sadness that our family announces that Ron succumbed to lung cancer on October 5, 2023 at the General hospital in Edmonton, Alberta.

Ron is survived by his life partner of 15 years Sangiam Kumduang (Oot-little frog), brother Doug (Linda), and sisters Sheila and Sherral. Nephews Ryan, Bradley and David had a special bond with Uncle Ron and kept in close touch with him throughout their lives. Ron also had a special bond with Lee Hanna-Chiste (Guy) and was a de facto uncle for her sons Neil and Stuart. He was predeceased by his parents Alice and Sheridan Clark.

Ron was born in Edmonton and lived there for most of his life, with the exception of his high school years and some secondary schooling in Lethbridge. Ron’s career was varied. He was a Geotechnician in the early development of the Ft. McMurray oil sands in the 1970s, followed by several years working in the petrochemical industry. After completing a diploma in journalism at Grant MacEwan College he worked with a variety of print media outlets in Sherwood Park, Rocky Mountain House and Edmonton. He moved into historical resource development after taking related studies at the Universities of Lethbridge and Calgary. Interesting assignments in this area included reconstruction of Fort Calgary and a Canadian Geographic Society grant for the study of the original Fort Whoop-Up site near Lethbridge. After that, he moved to New Zealand to work on a sheep farm. Later he worked in various building construction and maintenance trades, finishing as maintenance supervisor for St. Joseph’s Basilica in Edmonton, where he enjoyed the camaraderie of the staff and volunteers. Ron was very appreciative of the well wishes and visits received from friends and family during his final days.

Ron and Oot built their retirement home in Thailand near Oot’s family, where they planned to spend the remainder of their lives together. Their finished home was a delight to them both. Oot moved there ahead of Ron to begin landscaping the 4 acre parcel. Unfortunately, Ron’s cancer diagnosis, just as he was about to retire, prevented him moving to Thailand. 

A Celebration of Ron’s Life is planned for 1:00pm, April 20, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Basilica in Edmonton. 

Donations in Ron’s memory may be made to the Canadian Cancer Research Society. Photos, memories, and condolences may be shared through https://www.trinityfuneralhome.ca/obituary/.