Doug W. Clarke

Douglas “Doug” Wayne Clarke | October 3, 1950 – October 24, 2025

Douglas “Doug” Wayne Clarke of Las Vegas, Nevada, passed away on October 24, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and an unwavering love for his family, his students, and the game of life itself.

Born on October 3, 1950, in California, Doug was a man whose heart and humor touched everyone he met. He is survived by his devoted wife, Debbie Clarke; his son, Jason Castle; and his daughters, Billy-Gwen Gates, Alysen Filiatrault, and Whytnee Poe; as well as his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him immense joy and pride. He is also survived by his sister, Merelyn Rhoten, and was preceded in death by his parents, Lela and Leon Clarke, and his sister, Trisha Chubb.

Doug was a proud graduate of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where his love for sports and competition truly flourished. An avid runner, Doug once held the UNLV school record for the mile at 4 minutes and 31 seconds—an accomplishment he was deeply proud of, though far too humble to boast about. His passion for athletics continued throughout his life, both as a competitor and a coach.

Doug dedicated more than 40 years of his life to education, serving the Clark County School District as a special education teacher. Teaching wasn’t just a job for him—it was his calling. He had a gift for seeing the best in every student and helping them reach their full potential. Even after retiring, Doug’s passion for his students brought him back to the classroom, where he continued to make a difference until his final years. He was immensely proud of his work and the lives he touched along the way.

Beyond the classroom, Doug’s love for sports was endless. He coached soccer, track and field, volleyball, and basketball, and also served as a youth soccer referee for decades, earning the respect and admiration of players, parents, and coaches throughout the community. Doug was an enthusiastic fan of all sports, but none captured his heart quite like his hometown team, the Vegas Golden Knights. Whether cheering them on from the stands or from his favorite chair at home, he took great joy in celebrating every goal and victory.

Above all else, Doug cherished his family. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the center of his world, and his deep, abiding love for his wife Debbie was the steady heartbeat of his life. Together, they built a home filled with laughter, love, and countless memories that will live on forever.

Doug was a light in this world—a teacher, coach, athlete, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend whose impact will be felt for generations.

A Celebration of Life for Douglas will be held Tuesday, November 11, 2025 from 2-4PM at Palm Southwest Mortuary, 7979 W. Warm Springs Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89113, with a Memory Sharing period beginning at 4PM. All former soccer and teacher friends, students, athletes, and family are welcome to attend and share in honoring the life of this remarkable man.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation in Doug’s memory.

Douglas “Doug” Clarke will forever be remembered for his generous spirit, his boundless energy, and the love he shared so freely. His light will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew him.