Obituary

Santiago Clarke of Rio Grande, Texas died quietly on 12/17/2024 in the company of loved ones. Born on 10/15/1933, Santiago was a proud Army Military Veteran who served 22 years of honorable and dedicated service. In addition, he earned the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, and the Distinguished Flying Cross–which is regarded as the greatest honor for aviation performance in the United States. It signifies exceptional bravery or accomplishment during an aerial mission, going above and beyond the call of duty. While serving, he attained the level of E7 Sergeant First Class. He was a founding member of the Saint Augustine Catholic Church and a devoted parishioner for more than 48 years. He was a Fourth Degree Knight of the Knights of Columbus for over 30 years. After his military service, he dedicated his life to a continued career in civil service, volunteering for his church and the community. He was a loving, caring, and giving grandfather, father, father-in-law, and spouse who was kind, generous, and considerate. He was a God-loving man who never complained, no matter the challenges he faced. He is recognized for his tenacity, and he provided unwavering guidance and resilience to his family with a heart of gold. Santiago, who was loyal, steadfast, and family-oriented, has touched countless lives with love, wisdom, and generosity. He is survived by his spouse, Fay Clarke; children, Mark (Pamela) Clarke, Sharon (Wes) Utley, and Theresa (Gilbert) Reed; and grandchildren; as well as his sister, Norma Klienfelt; brother, Jacob Clarke; and countless nieces and nephews. He will be missed dearly and is reunited with his grandmother, mother, father, brother, and granddaughter, as well as numerous other loved ones in Heaven.