Passed away peacefully on November 5th, 2025 at the age of 78. He was the devoted husband of Kathryn Clarke and loving father to Jensen and Morgan.
Born on November 6th 1946 in Withrow Park Toronto, James grew up with a passion for athletics: flagfootball, ice-hockey, basketball, running, cycling, swimming and skiing which he later shared with his children, especially during the school year where he balanced his career as a teacher with that of being a parent-coach. He worked for 40 years as an educator focusing on K-8 students where he excelled in art, history and physical education.
James was an avid cottager, transitioning from “City Slicker” to outdoorsman over several summers in Haliburton; a tradition he has passed down to his family.
James was a man of great faith, integrity, compassion and character, who instilled in his children the values of hard work, honesty, and compassion. His love and loyalty for his family was his greatest accomplishment, and he always made time for them, no matter what. His memory will be cherished by his family and friends.
He is survived by his wife, Kathryn Clarke; children, Jensen (Wife Kendal) and Morgan (Husband
Dane); sister Phyllis Clarke and grandchildren: Collins, Charlotte, Jack, Luca and Miles. He was preceded in death by father William “Bill” Clarke and Mother Ethel “Dolly” Clarke.
A memorial service will be held at 10:30am on Friday November 14th at NEWCASTLE UNITED CHURCH – 84 Mill St S, Newcastle, ON L1B 1H2. Followed food and refreshments at Walsh’s Snug at 28 King Ave E, Newcastle, ON L1B 1H7.
