Celebration of Life for

Robert (“Bud”) Keith Clark

October 14, 1937 – April 17, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Bud in his 88th year at Orillia Soldier’s Memorial Hospital surrounded by his family. Beloved husband of 66 years to Ann (nee Brady) and much-loved and respected father of Brady (Lillian), Glenda (Tom) and Shawna (Chris). Cherished grandfather of Kath (Rosella), Kelly, Darcy and Eden, step-grandfather to Desmond and proud great-grandfather to Zoba.

Bud passed away doing what he felt compelled to do – helping others. During the fateful March ice storm, Bud worked around the clock, helping friends and family keep generators running, removing fallen limbs that blocked roadways and delivering firewood to keep homes heated. With his many pre-existing health issues, the physical and mental stress of that week took its toll and on April 14th, he ended up in hospital. He communicated to his family that although he did not want to leave them, he knew his time had come.

Bud was the youngest son of the late Ken and Kathleen (nee Carkner) Clark and brother to Clifford (Marly) of Washago and Bruce (Linda) (both predeceased) of Orillia. He was the son-in-law of the late Grace (nee Blackwell) and Harold Brady and brother-in-law of the late David Brady.

Bud attended ODCVI high school in Orillia. It was on the school bus that Bud met Ann who soon became his high school sweetheart and 3 years later, his wife. He had a 35-year career with Ontario Hydro and retired as Electrical Maintenance Supervisor at the Gravenhurst Service Centre.

Bud had a great love of nature and the outdoors. He took immense pleasure in planting a small vegetable garden and cruising the river on his pontoon boat picking up family, grand-dogs, and neighbours along the way. He also enjoyed driving his ATV or Ski-doo out on the Morrison rocks and in Longford Township, both of which he knew like the back of his hand.

Bud was the “go to guy” in the neighbourhood and was affectionately called the “Mayor” of the Lane. He was generous and thoughtful and had a genuine interest in the welfare of others. He was a true people person and could strike up a conversation with anyone anywhere, even strangers whose phone number he dialed in error. He always had time for others and built a wide circle of lasting friendships. Although he had a great sense of humour and could laugh at himself, he also had strong opinions and sometimes displayed a fiery temperament while discussing such topics as sports and politics. He was a prankster who was well known for his teasing antics, devilish grin and glint in the eye. He is greatly missed by his brother Cliff, sister-in-law, Marly, cousins, nieces, nephews and many friends. He will be remembered for his large presence and his big heart.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Matthew Smith and staff in the emergency department and the fifth floor of Soldier’s Memorial for their caring support and compassion to Bud and family at a very difficult time. The family also wishes to thank Dr. Devon Bhatt and Dr. Rouslan Kotchetkov whose medical expertise gave Bud 10 more years of life after being diagnosed with leukemia.

If so desired, donations can be made in Bud’s name to “Speaking of Wildlife, Orillia” or to Shades of Hope Wildlife Refuge, Pefferlaw or to a charity of your choice. Or help out a stranger today; Bud would love that! Bud did not want a funeral but instead wanted us to celebrate his life. Please join the family on Saturday August 16, 2025, for a Celebration of Bud’s Life at the Ramona Hall, 2212 Fairgrounds Road from 1 to 4 PM with tributes starting at 2 pm.

Messages of condolence are welcomed at www.simcoefuneralhome.ca