Major William Clarke (R)

Promoted to Glory on May 18, 2014 in his 85th year. Predeceased by his wife, Major Ethel Lily Mary (nee Carr). Cherished father of Beth (Bob) Porter, Brian (Shelagh) Clarke, Reverend Barbara (Reverend Carl) Moulton and Reverend Barry (Reverend Bonnie) Clarke. Grandfather of Robert, David, Sharon, Mark, Sarah, Laura, Megan, Lindsay, Leisha, Joshua and Daniel. Great-grandfather of Cassandra, Ashley, Nolan and Gavin. His story will be shared with three great-grandchildren who will be born later this year.The family wishes to acknowledge the late Ruth Christensen for the dear love and friendship she gave to our father. We also wish to thank Margaret Davidson whose support was shown in countless ways.We are forever grateful to the staff at the Isabel and Arthur Meighen Manor for their tender care in dad's final years.Major Clarke was born in Toronto on March 12, 1930 and raised in Smith’s Falls, Ontario and attended the School for the Blind in Brantford where he made many lifelong friends. He early identified the call to ministry in The Salvation Army, never allowing the challenges of His visual handicap to keep him from serving God.He entered The Salvation Army Training College in 1959. Major Clarke preached the good news with passion and blessed others with his musical gifts for over six decades. He shared the message of God’s grace to countless men and women, boys and girls.He will be remembered for his joyous sense of humour reflected in his conversations, songs, preaching and writing. His children and grandchildren will always cherish the memory of his stories and skilful impersonations.He is in the presence of the Lord he loved so much. In faith we believe that he now sees clearly. Sufferings of this life are passed.Visitation will be at the York Community Church at 1100 Weston Road in Toronto on Thursday, May 22, 2014 from 10am to 12pm. The funeral service for Major William will commence immediately after the visitation in the Church Chapel at 12pm followed by a private interment.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Salvation Army or the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, or the Christian Blind Mission International.