John Henry Clarke

November 22, 1945 – August 16, 2023

John Henry Clarke, 77, of Milwaukie, OR passed away August 16, 2023. John was born in Portland, OR on November 22, 1945.

He was joined in holy matrimony to his beloved wife Linda of 34 years, in Vancouver, WA on June 3, 1989.

She survives along with their children Tami Holmes, Teresa Clarke, Dale Wright (Heather), Michael Wright (John), and James Wright (Lydia); his brothers Jerry Clarke, Jay Clarke (Patty), and KC Aho (Coralee); his sisters Joanne Waller, Jackie Maude, and Jeanne Bassett; his nine grandchildren, five great grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Florence and Ken Aho.

He joined the United States Marine Corps at the age of 17 where he served four years active duty including 2 tours in Vietnam. He owned and operated an Arco Service Station for a number of years in Portland, Or. It was during this time that John earned the nickname of Arco John . Later John went to work in HVAC for 28 years until his retirement in 2017. After his retirement John and his wife enjoyed traveling. John’s passions were fishing, hunting, and photographing old steam engine trains. Photographing trains was his final hobby and included traveling local and out of state to capture select steam locomotives. He loved spending time with his family.

A service will be held at Willamette National Cemetery at 11:30 am on September 15, 2023. A reception will follow at High Rocks Steak and Chops in Gladstone, OR. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Alzheimer’s Association or a charity of your choice.