Garfield "Gary" Bernard Clarke

Garfield Bernard Clarke (aka Gary) was born on December 5, 1967, in Kitchener Ontario, Canada. He was the first child of Cynthia and Clifford Clarke. In September 1968, after he was administered the Measle Mumps Rubella (MMR) vaccine, he developed an extremely high fever and became comatose. After 5 days, he awakened but was left with a severe seizure disorder that he endured for the rest of his life.

In April 1969, the family migrated to Brooklyn, New York to seek better medical treatment for Gary. He was then treated at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital for many years.

Subsequently, his treatment was switched to Kings County Hospital and he began attending Special Ed. Programs at NYC Public Schools. Upon his parent's retirement, the family relocated to Deltona, Florida. Gary was then enrolled in the Association for Retarded Citizens (ARC) of Volusia Program in Deland. The program was established to provide people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to participate as full members of their communities throughout their lives. His attendance there helped improve his social skills and purpose. He learned to assemble TV and auto parts for various companies. He was a loved and valued member of the ARC of Volusia Workshop Program for 19 years and hated to miss a day.

Gary also loved music, as he always had his stereo headset on. His other hobbies were puzzles, bowling and watching TV, especially sports. He enjoyed going to church with parents on Sunday and would constantly remind them on Saturday, there's "church tomorrow".

Despite, encountering many obstacles in his life, Gary lived and enjoyed a life of normalcy.

In March of 2024, Gary was diagnosed with colon cancer which subsequently went into remission after 9 months. On Christmas Eve 2024, it was revealed that the Cancer had returned and determined that no further treatment could alleviate the disease. The family decided, as a whole that Gary would live out his final days at home surrounded by loved ones. On January 23rd, 2025 @ 9:30 AM, Garfield Bernard Clarke took his last breath with his family at his side as always.

Gary had a radiant smile and was loved by anyone who knew him and will be missed by all.

He was such an integral part of our family. God chose to take him in his arms after 57 beautiful years. We know you are one his angels!

May his soul Rest in Peace!!!!

A visitation for Garfield will be held Saturday, February 8, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Deltona Presbyterian Church, 2300 Howland Blvd, Deltona, FL 32738. A funeral service will occur Saturday, February 8, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 2300 Howland Blvd, Deltona, FL 32738. A reception will occur Saturday, February 8, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at DeBary Country Club, 300 Plantation Club Dr, DeBary, FL 32713.