William “Bill” George Clarke, resident of Rycroft, AB, passed away Friday, January 24, 2020, at the age of 73 years.

Bill was born January 15, 1947, in Beaverlodge, AB, where he resided until 1963, when he entered the workforce at Grande Prairie Co-op in the menswear department. From there, his working history included: fuel hauling, skidder operator, being a mechanic’s helper, class one driver, and working as a farmhand until he retired in 2016. With a wealth of knowledge and the ability to figure out any task, he was always someone you could call and count on to get a job done.

His hobbies included: following a rodeo circuit when he was younger, camping and spending time with his loved ones, and hearing stories about those he hadn’t seen for a while. His witty and fun-loving nature allowed him to fully enjoy his time in any location. His stories, jokes and ability to make people laugh are of the many things that he will be fondly remembered for; if he could surprise you with a comment, scare, or annoy you in the process of making you laugh, Bill felt accomplished. You always knew when he was being mischievous though, his daring grin and hidden childlike giggles would give him away almost every time.

He was stubborn beyond belief (a quality that everyone knew), but he was selfless and kind and his generous, quirky and loving nature will forever be appreciated.

Bill will be sadly missed by his wife Bonnie Clarke; children: Len Clarke (Monica), Meryl Clarke (JamieLea), Tyler Clarke (Alison), Gilbert Clarke, and Dora Clarke (Chris); grandchildren: Colby, Daiten, Keaton, Kendra, ShaundraLea, Brody, Braylea, Dylan, Josh, Nevaeh, and Xavier; all of his great-grandchildren; as well as his brother Tom Clarke.

He was predeceased by his parents Dora “Marjorie” and William Clarke; brother Ron Clarke; and grandson Zayden.

Honouring Bill's wishes, cremation took place and a Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, July 4, 2020, at 1:00pm, at Bridgeview Cemetery in Spirit River. A gathering in Rycroft to follow.