Clarence was born April 23, 1931 in Portland, OR to George W. and Laura A. Mershon. He died May 10, 2013 after a brief illness. He grew up working on a farm in the Corbett area where his great grandparents arrived in 1881. He graduated from Columbian High School (now Corbett) in 1949. While a student at Columbian High School, he enlisted in the Oregon National Guard and was later called to active service as a member of the 142nd Fighter Group during the Korean War, achieving the rank of sergeant.
Clarence graduated from Portland State University in 1959 and later earned his Masters of Education from the University of Oregon. Under a National Science Foundation Grant, he studied mathematics at the University of Colorado, Boulder.
Clarence had a 30 year career with the Parkrose School District, working as a teacher and an administrator. His family often marveled that he remembered the names and faces of his students long afterward. He also worked many years at the Multnomah Kennel Club, first as a night office manager, then as a racing official. His was the voice reporting MKC racing results on local radio for many years.
As a member of the Mazamas, Clarence climbed several Northwest Peaks, including the Guardian Peaks of Hood, Adams and St Helens. He was an avid runner, completing three marathons and enjoyed ballroom dancing and karaoke singing. Clarence also had a passion for history. In retirement, he published several books recording stories and history of East Multnomah County and the Historic Columbia River Highway. His last book was completed shortly before his death.
Clarence married his high school sweetheart, Colleen, in 1950. In addition to his wife of 63 years, he is survived by four children, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren, as well as a brother and sister. He was preceded in death by a brother and sister and one grandchild.
A celebration of life will be held at Bateman Carroll Funeral Home in Gresham on Monday, May 20, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. Remembrances to: Troutdale Historical Society-Highway Exhibit, 219 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale, OR 97060 or Corbett Education Foundation-Clarence and Colleen Mershon Scholarship Fund, 35800 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Corbett, OR 97019.
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