JARS 43n1 - In Memoriam: George Clarke

In Memoriam: George Clarke
Betty Sheedy
Portland, Oregon

Members of the Portland Chapter and the Tualatin Valley Chapter mourn the August 31st death of George Clarke. George had two loves that dominated his life, people and rhododendrons. At his nursery, near the Portland airport, he did not sell a plant without making a friend, many of whom he recruited for chapter membership.

Within the Portland Chapter, he served in many capacities including the presidency from 1968 to 1970. He generously supplied plants for door prizes and inaugurated the chapter newsletter. In 1974 the chapter awarded George the Bronze Medal. In recent years, he and his wife, Melba, have served as Honors Committee chairmen. Our fondest memories may be of George the jovial plant auctioneer.

George and Melba, his high school sweetheart celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 1986. Melba has been a true helpmate in all of George's activities. George will be remembered fondly by his friends and family alike.