Robert “Bob” Clarke, 82, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, December 28, 2021, at the UMass Memorial Medical Center, University Campus. Born and raised in Worcester, he was a son of the late Harry and Anna (Carroll) Clarke.

Bob proudly served his country in the United States Army. Upon his return he began a long career as a steel worker with the former L. Hardy Knife Company in Worcester. He retired in 2001 after 25 years of dedicated service. Bob loved the outdoors and was a member of the Singletary Rod & Gun Club in Oxford. He could often be found fishing, camping and gardening. His sense of adventure brought him to Ireland and Hawaii many times throughout the years and his sense of humor will be remembered by all who knew him.

He will be lovingly missed and remembered by his two daughters, Karen A. Banks and her husband, David of Auburn with whom he lived and Cheryl A. Clarke of Leicester; his four grandchildren, Kristen, Arianna, Kaitlyn and Daniel; several nieces and nephews; and his faithful companion, Kya. In addition to his fiancé of 21 years, Cornelia Dillon, Bob was predeceased by his three brothers, Frank, Harry and Walter Clarke and his five sisters, Laura Mahan, Virginia Nagle, Eva Savage, Cecilla Bender and Dorothy Brooks.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather with Bob’s family from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, January 8, 2022, in the Kelly Funeral Home, 154 Lincoln Street, Worcester. Bob will be laid to rest at Worcester County Memorial Park beside his beloved companion, Connie Dillon at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Dana- Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284.