Robert S. Clark, 83, of New Bedford, MA died October 25, 2022, at home surrounded by his wife and sons after a courageous battle with cancer. He was the husband of Betty Jane I. (Martin) Clark, with whom he shared 57 years of marriage.
Born in New Bedford, MA, son of the late James W. and Catherine F. (McHugh) Clark, he lived in New Bedford all of his life.
Mr. Clark was formerly employed as a dedicated telephone repairman with New England Telephone and Telegraph Company for over 30 years until his retirement. Three days after graduating from Monsignor Coyle High School, Bob enlisted in the Unites States Army. He served proudly as a Chaplain's Assistant in the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps achieving the rank of Specialist 5. Specialist 5 Clark was chosen to promote the Surface to Air Missile System known as the Nike Hercules Missile and appeared in Department of Defense promotional media films. After completing his military service, Bob returned to New Bedford.
One of Bob's passions, was his interest in the New Bedford Fire Department. At a very young age, Bob and his older brother Paul, would often be found riding their bicycles to Fire Station 4 and interacting with the firefighters. They would follow Engine 4 to different emergency calls in their neighborhood. Later, Bob and Paul joined the New Bedford Protecting Society where each found great fellowship assisting the firefighters and the public. After achieving a written score of 99.4% on his fire department entrance exam, his desire to serve as a firefighter was never achieved due to findings of high blood pressure during the medical screening process. However, Bob's passion for the fire service continued; Bob wouldn't travel without his portable fire radio and a home scanner was always monitoring the NBFD. Bob would often turn out to working fires and unknowingly began teaching his sons about the value of public service. The young Clark brothers would often be awakened in the middle of the night (regardless if it was a school night) to turn out to working fires with their Dad and unexpectedly meet up with their Uncle Paul. While enroute to the fire scene Bob would often explain to the boys firefighting tactics. His desire to serve his Country and Community was an example to his sons which led them into senior leadership positions within the New Bedford Fire Department and the United States Army.
Bob's mother and father were both employed by the Bell System. Bob's interest in electronics naturally led him to the New England Telephone and Telegraph Company where he again joined his brother Paul. Bob proudly served the Bell System for over 30 years as a lineman, repairman and special services data technician. Just hours after completing in-service training in First-Aid, while on his lunch break at York Steak House, Bob's quick actions helped clear the airway of a patron who was choking. Bob would perform this action two more times during his career; saving three lives.
Bob was a proud Union member of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers #2322. He served as a shop steward for many years. He and his colleagues participated in two major strikes and held the line until a reasonable settlement was achieved. Bob turned down several promotional opportunities so he could continue to serve in a Union leadership role. Bob would walk in support of other Unions in their labor disputes and striking efforts.
Two of his most prized items were two fully restored telephone repair trucks. A 1936 Ford repair truck was in honor of his father; as his Dad would have used the 1936 model during his Bell service. The 1936 Ford and a 1953 Chevrolet were completely stocked with the proper era-related equipment. These trucks also carried the funeral prayer cards of his fellow deceased telephone-men; honoring them and their families Bell service. Bob would often call his dear friend Paul Gomes his "Guardian Angel." Mr. Gomes helped Bob study during the hiring process into the Telephone Company. Bob truly loved his job and was the definition of a telephone man.
Bob loved his hometown of New Bedford, MA. He would often tell new friends how great New Bedford was; however, he would also be its most loyal defender with those who dared criticize his City. Bob and Betty could often be found in attendance with their antique cars at local car shows, where they met many dear friends. He was a dedicated family man who enthusiastically supported his three sons and seven grandchildren's athletic teams and varied interests. He would often be found after games mentoring young teammates who were facing challenges both on and off the field of play. Many baseball umpires, football and basketball referees, and opposing coaches will sleep soundly knowing he will not be in attendance going forward.
Survivors include his wife; 3 sons, James W. Clark and his wife Linda M. E. Clark of New Bedford, Thomas R. Clark and his wife Wendy F. Clark of Dartmouth, and Peter W. Clark and his wife Jennifer M. Clark, of Dartmouth; 7 grandchildren, Benjamin Q., Kelsey A., Patrick J., Mia F., Ethan T.F., Cody W. and Zachary J. Clark; a niece and 3 nephews.
He was the brother of the late Rev. James W. Clark, John A. Clark and Paul Clark.
His Funeral will be held on Thursday, November 3rd at 11 AM from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, followed by his Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish at St. James Church at 12 Noon. Visiting hours will also be held on Wednesday, November 2nd from 4-8 PM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the New Bedford Fire Museum, 51 Bedford Street, New Bedford, MA, 02740.