Donald Gene "Don" Clark, 89, passed away in Clovis, New Mexico on July 3, 2026 following a long struggle with diabetes. Don was born on June 14, 1937 in Medicine Park, Oklahoma to Edwin and Estal Clark. He grew up in West Texas, farming with the family. He graduated from Lakeview High School in 1955.
After graduation, Don attended numerous colleges, concentrating in math and science, including Clarendon College, Texas Tech, WTSU and Baylor, all in Texas, and Highlands University in New Mexico. He graduated with his bachelor's and master's degrees. He later taught different courses during the summer at some of those schools, while continuing his own education.
Don married Glynda Pat Lewis in 1957. While they both were attending WTSU in Canyon, Texas, they worked as caretakers at Palo Duro Canyon. There are still postcards floating around (as part of an advertising campaign) where Don is poised at the rim of the canyon leading a group of tourists on horseback. The family later moved to Tucumcari and Don began his teaching career. Together they had twins Pam and Phil, who were born in 1962.
Don had been an educator of 31 years with the Tucumcari Public Schools. He taught junior high, high school, and night school. In 1969, the family moved to Santa Fe where Don was head of the math division for the State Department of Education. He then worked for the Houghton Mifflin publishing company as it representative for New Mexico, where he distributed its math series to the public schools. He then returned to Tucumcari where he continued to teach until his retirement.
Don loved camping, cooking, fishing, gardening, and playing a hand of poker (any chance he got). He was a lifetime member of Elks Lodge #1172, serving as its Exalted Ruler and as District Deputy. He enjoyed working in the kitchen, helping with bingo, and anything to do with the Elks commitment to the youth of Tucumcari. He was instrumental in the Tucumcari Lodge becoming one of Elkdom's All-American Lodges.
He had many monikers: "Donnie" to his family; "Pa Don" to the grandkids; the "Professor" or "Cowboy" to his poker buddies; and, of course, "Mr. Clark" to his beloved students. He retired in 1991 and was always delighted when a former student would see him with a kiss, hug, or handshake telling some recollection about him and that he was their favorite teacher, which happened everywhere!
On June 13, 1981, Don wed Mary Grooms in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Throughout their marriage, they loved tending their flowers and vegetable gardens. They also worked tirelessly with the Elks, traveled, and managed a number of hotels in New Mexico. Don loved being Mary's assistant while she wrote "A Mark of Time", a book they were both extremely proud to have accomplished. Mary passed away in April of 2017.
He is also preceded in death by his parents; his five siblings: Willis, Robbie Glen, Louise, Margaret, and Minnie Ann; his son Phil and his mother Pat; his son-in-law Herman Clark; and Mary's children: Terri Martinez, John Toney, Joe Toney, and other relatives.
He is survived by his daughter Pam Clark; Mary's daughter Elaine (Frank) Moya; and daughter-in-law Rachel Toney; along with many nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
The family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Darrell Willis and the PMG staff for the loving care given to Don these many years, to Dr. Devin Whalen for his compassion and humanity; and to Gentiva Hospice for providing him with comfort and dignity during his final days, along with their kindness and support since that time. Finally, a very special thank you to Joan Wigley for your time, friendship and love.
A Life Remembered - Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on July 17, 2026 at Elks Lodge #1172, 2118 S. Adams Street, in Tucumcari, New Mexico. The service is open to the public, with a reception to follow. All are welcome to attend.