Vincent Joseph Clarke

Lt. Col. (USAF Ret) Vincent Joseph Clarke, 92, of Novato, passed away suddenly at home on May 14, 2015. He was born in Bridgeton, New Jersey on September 3, 1922. Vince married WAF Cpt. Kittye Garlow on August 20, 1949, who preceded him in death in 1987. He then married Hung Doris Luong on November 18, 1989. He flew 210 combat missions during WWII and the Korean War, earning many decorations, including a Distinguished Flying Cross for his heroism. He retired after 26 years in the Air Force, taking to the skies again as a pilot for Air America in Saigon, flying over 8,500 hours in S. Vietnam, Laos, Thailand & Cambodia. He returned to the States only 12 days before Saigon fell. He was active in the Novato community, serving as a past Treasurer for Sons In Retirement (SIRs), past VP, Treasurer for Military Officers Association of American (MOAA), Marin Co. Chapter, and was member of Marin Chinese Cultural Association (MCCA). Vince was always quick to lend a hand, give a wink, and salute the flag. Vince is survived by his wife, Hung Doris Clarke; daughter, Viki Clarke Kychakoff; granddaughters, Jenny and Katherina; and many loving in-laws. Memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 23, 2015 at St. Francis Episcopal Church, 967 5th St., Novato, CA 94945. Party in his honor to follow in the church reception room.