Richard Carl Clark, Sr.

The Silver Valley lost lifetime Burke resident, Dick Clark, Sr. on September 14, 2023. Dick may have been the second most famous Dick Clark, but was locally famous to those in the hunting, fishing and mining communities. Dick was born at the famous Providence Hospital in Wallace and spent his days fishing and hunting throughout North Idaho.

“Dick knew this region like the back of his hand with different nicknames for every draw, ridge, or 5-year-old clear-cut, and killed more stuff than the plague”, say some of his friends.  Married at 19 to his High School Sweetheart and Wallace resident, Joy Oakes, their love left a permanent impression in Shoshone County's history with descendents that include High School State Athletes, a Wallace Valedictorian and family members who, daily, make this area a better place to live. 

His daughter, Carla, fondly remembers “as very young children, we used to walk from our Burke house to the shaft entrance at the Star Mine and wait for him to come out after his shift was over. We couldn’t wait to see Dad”. 

Dick was preceded in death by his wife, Joy Ellen Clark; his daughter, Naomi Clark; and his grandson, Jacob Dellinger.

He is survived by his daughter, Carla Jean Johnson, and his son, Richard Carl Clark Jr. He leaves behind the following grandchildren and great-grandchildren; Cody Cline, Jon Dellinger, Austin Johnson, Rylea Johnson, Garrett Clark, Connor Cline, Christopher Cline & Colter Cline. 

Dick enjoyed the camaraderie of his friends who were like family to him over the years. His memory will be cherished by the Tesky’s, Hayman’s, Long’s, Anderson’s, Dechand’s and many more. He appreciated all of his coworkers at F&H Mine Supply and the business owners who treated him like family.

While so many of us here in the Silver Valley will miss Richard Clark Sr, we are certain Dick will equally miss the Silver Valley. A remembrance of life will be held at the Wallace Elks on Saturday, November 4, 2023 at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, he would appreciate your potluck dish or contribution to the bar tab. 

To send Dick’s family messages of condolence please visit www.shoshonefuneralservice.com. Shoshone Funeral Services, Kellogg, is assisting the Clark family with arrangements.