Clarke, Alan John
Clarke, Alan John: It is with sadness that we announce, on the afternoon of May 22, 2022, Dr. John Clarke gently passed. He slipped dock lines and was set free to embark on his next journey into unchartered waters. Beloved husband and soul mate of 33 years to Sharon Brodeur (nee Poulos). He is survived by his beautiful children Felicity (Seth Rodness), Dr. Philippa Clarke (Dr. Avi Wasserman) and Richard Clarke (Andria) and loving stepchildren Diana (Ryan McKeen) and Suzanne (Gordon Templeman). Cherished grandfather of Connor, Samuel, Ruth, Zoe, Noah, Charlotte and Emma. Predeceased by his brother Tim Clarke.
Born in Hove, England on October 19, 1934, John was a serene soul and embodied grace and a unwavering kindness like no other from an early age. Competing in Finn class sailing at the 1972 Summer Olympics for Canada, he went on to be a dentist (gentle John) known to his patients on St. Clair Avenue for 50 years. His love for the arts, classical music, ballet and new found skill in painting in his retired years brought him so much joy, not outshone by his mathematical and engineering talent and leading light on water, he was the true sum of greatness. Dr. John will be fondly remembered by his many relatives, colleagues and friends. Love will bring us back around to meet on a distant shore, “Red Sky at Night, Sailors Delight”.
A private cremation has taken place. Please consider a donation made directly to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.
Arrangements entrusted to Peaceful Transition York (2-15236 Yonge Street Aurora) and condolences and your memories of John may be forwarded through www.peacefultransition.ca
John Lownsbrough
Posted on: Friday, May 27, 2022Many people do not look forward to a visit to the dentist. But that was not the case for me and a visit to John Clarke. I looked forward to those visits because of his professional skills, yes, but also because I felt I was keeping up with a friend. I looked forward to the chats with John and Sharon. He had a soft voice and a gentle manner and always put one right at ease. He laughed easily and had a sense of fun. He was a good man and I send my profound sympathies to Sharon and his family on his passing.
Jim Glover
Posted on: Friday, May 27, 2022Sharon, you may remember my name from “Harbinson Glover” days. John’s obituary in the Globe & Mail caught my eye as the photo is of him sailing in the Finn class and I have sailed for most of my life. Thinking of you and your family during this difficult period.
James A.S. Thompson
Posted on: Saturday, May 28, 2022Dear Sharon and Family- I was so saddened to read Dr. Clarke’s death notice in the Globe. I was a patient from 1971 until John’s retirement. He was so gentle and easy to talk to. My father and mother and I were all long time patients. I recall how thoughtful John was to attend the visitation when my father died when I was 19. He was old school and attentive and gracious. My teeth and I both thank him for his years of dedication. Please accept my condolences -Jamie Thompson, Toronto.
Margaret Bahen Hospice
Posted on: Wednesday, June 1, 2022It was an honour to care for Alan at Margaret Bahen Hospice. On behalf of the entire MB Hospice family, please accept our deepest sympathies.