Ivan Curtis Clare

Ivan Curtis Clare, age 92, of Jacksonville, Florida passed away on Saturday, December 25, 2021. Ivan was born August 2, 1929, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to parents Willard and Thelma Clare. He was active in sports and editor of his high school yearbook, the Deer Park Antler. He graduated from Miami of Ohio University with a degree in journalism. He enlisted in the army during the Korean war effort and was company clerk and editor of the base newspaper. Ivan got his first newspaper job at the Orlando Sentinel, where he covered high school football for the area. Because of his excellent work, he was offered a job at the Florida Times-Union as an assistant sports editor and made a permanent home in Jacksonville. He was a featured writer and covered the Florida State Seminoles. After several years with the newspaper, Ivan went to work for the city of Jacksonville. He worked in the mayor’s office as speechwriter and head of public relations. He helped create the Sister Cities Program. An ambassador for the city, he entertained dignitaries from around the world and traveled to Argentina, China and the Soviet Union. Ivan retired in the 90’s but remained active in city affairs. He was active in The World Affairs Council and published their monthly newsletter.

Ivan is survived by his sister Carolynn Dibone, daughters Erin Scordalakes, Heather Clare and son Dane Clare, step children Sharon Schoff, Wayne and Greg Westberry. Special thanks to the women of Suzie’s Home Care, Suzie Williams, Audrey Faison and Eva Foston, for their loving care at the end of his life.