Clark Purdy

Clark Purdy of Rochester, Michigan, age 94, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, surrounded by family. Born September 12, 1930, in Caro, Michigan, to Charrie and Alfred Purdy, Clark led a life filled with love, integrity, and unwavering devotion to his family and friends.

Clark often spoke of the strong influence of his small-town upbringing, saying, "I was raised by a community," a testament to the tight-knit relationships that shaped his values. He adored his six siblings and cherished the childhood lessons that stayed with him throughout his life.

Clark's leadership abilities emerged early, serving as Senior Class President at Caro High School, where he excelled academically and was a standout varsity football player. He continued his education at Michigan State University, earning a degree in business, and becoming a proud member of the Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity. His love for Michigan State remained a constant throughout his life, and he was an ardent supporter of the Spartans.

It was during his time at MSU that Clark met the love of his life, Elizabeth "Bette" Finley, on a blind date set up by a fellow Caro friend. That date marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership, and Clark and Bette were married on May 31, 1952, in Jellico, Tennessee, while Clark was serving in the U.S. Navy at the Great Lakes Naval Training Center. After his service, Clark worked for Mobil Oil Company before founding CCC Rent-A-Car and Airport Parking in Columbus and Cincinnati, where he found success and forged many lifelong connections.

Clark and Bette made their home in Columbus, Ohio, where they raised their three children, creating a life centered on family. Clark was an active member of his business community, serving as president of SKAL, an international travel organization, as well as several other associations. Both Clark and Bette were also deeply involved in their church, Covenant Presbyterian.

Beyond his professional achievements, Clark had a deep love for the outdoors. He was a proud member of Camp 5 (and later Roy's Landing), a hunting camp founded by his father and friends nearly one hundred years ago in Ontonagon, Michigan. The camp became a cherished tradition, where Clark created countless memories, particularly during bird and deer hunts, with his family, including the joy of introducing his grandchildren to the camp.

In 1964, Clark and Bette purchased a lake house on Higgins Lake, Michigan, a place where they created decades of treasured memories with their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and siblings. The home became the backdrop for countless gatherings, holiday celebrations, and especially memorable Christmases.

Clark's zest for life was contagious. He never knew a stranger, and wherever he went, his energy and joy were palpable. His passion for family was the cornerstone of his existence, teaching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren the true meaning of life. He often said, "nothing is more important than family," and his legacy of love, care, and togetherness will live on in them. Clark's work ethic was unmatched, and he instilled this drive and dedication in everyone he met.

His bond with his brother, Dave, was particularly special. Twelve years younger than Clark, Dave was just 12 years old when their father tragically died in a fire. Clark stepped in as a father figure, guiding and mentoring his brother through life. The two shared a deep, lifelong friendship, and Dave was, without question, Clark's best friend.

Clark was a man of character, charm, wisdom, and love. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He cherished every moment spent with his family and leaves behind a legacy that will continue through them for generations to come.

Clark is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bette, who passed away on October 9, 2021. He is now reunited with her, bringing comfort to his family. He is survived by his children, Fred (Bonnie), Leigh (Mike), and Beth (Chris); his grandchildren, Cole, Pam (Morgan), Greg, Michael (Erin), Mary (Andy), Mackenzie, Reilly (Eliot), Janie, and John; his great-grandchildren, Paige, Senna, Clark, Claire, Nora, Parker, and Oliver; his brother, David (Susan); and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 4, 2025 at the Indianfields Township Cemetery Chapel with Rev. Paul McNett officiating. Burial with military honors afforded by the U.S. Navy and Caro American Legion Post #7 will follow in the cemetery. Clark’s family will be present to receive friends at the cemetery chapel on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Cleveland Clinic at http://my.clevelandclinic.org/giving/ways-to-give/foundation-giving or the Higgins Lake Foundation at http://higginslake-foundation.org/.

Clark Edwin Purdy's life was one of purpose, love, and service. His legacy of character, wisdom, and love for family will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.