Jim Clark

Jim Clark, 77, of Palestine, IL, passed away on March 9, 2024, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes, IN. Born in Sullivan, IN, on November 30, 1946, Jim's journey shaped a life rich in experiences that he generously shared with everyone around him. His wide and warm smile reflected the light of a man who embraced life's adventures with open arms and a heart ready to give.

Jim's childhood was filled with the kind of stories that make you believe in the vibrant spirit of boyhood adventure. From “parachuting” off a barn loft with an umbrella to accidentally blowing a rabbit to pieces on the annual family Thanksgiving Day hunt to singing with the family band at church and a camp meeting in Orleans, IN, his early life was a tapestry of shared moments that forged unbreakable family bonds. With a diploma from Palestine High School in hand, Jim boldly stepped into the world, embracing hard work at Hulman & Company in Terre Haute, where he was tasked with heaving 100-lb bags all day long. Though he also worked for a gas station in Terre Haute, the time came for him to move back home, where he ran his own car lot and body shop.

While he also sold cars for Terry Wiseman and briefly worked at Fair Rite, many will remember Jim for his decades of service and protection as a police officer in Palestine. From 1979-1984, he served his community as a patrolman before becoming the Palestine Police Chief in 1989, a role he held until his retirement in 2013. He stood as a pillar of integrity, holding fast to the principle that grace and understanding pave the road to true justice. This belief was reflected in his memoir, "Innocent Country Roads to Mean City Streets," and his well-regarded "Kop's Korner" column, evidencing a life rich in experience, wisdom, and, of course, humor! Further defining his dedication to justice and the well-being of our region was the decade he spent on the board of the Southeastern Illinois Drug Task Force and his stint as a child death investigator.

Jim's community engagement was equally notable. A member of the Palestine Chamber of Commerce since 1989, he served as its president in 2003, 2007, and 2008 and vice-president in 2006. He also served as a chairman for the Pioneer City Rodeo Committee, and his years of dedication were rewarded with an induction into the Pioneer City Hall of Fame in 2019. Everything considered, it is clear that Jim Clark was the kind of man who stood for something larger than himself.

Beyond his professional and civic roles, Jim reveled in his personal pursuits-whether breaking horses for his daughter, Lisa, or restoring a '69 Camaro with his son, Faron. His passion for cars, horse riding, and motorcycle racing were more than hobbies; they were avenues through which he conveyed life lessons of tenacity and joy to his children. Jim was also the ultimate grandfather. To them, he was a firm foundation of support and pride, always looking for opportunities to make a memory. Jacie, for example, enjoyed innumerable Dairy Queen dates with her granddad. Riding up in his beautifully restored red Mustang, she could always count on a good story and that he'd finish his ice cream well before her! He also cherished his wife, Kathy, who witnessed firsthand his remarkable ability to gift warmth and bring light to any room and any situation.

Jim Clark didn't just live; he thrived. He didn't just exist; he made a difference. And as we remember this remarkable man, let us carry forward the light he shone so brightly, continuing his legacy of sacrificial service and passion so that we may too enjoy the extraordinary ride through the wonderful journey of life.

He married Kathy (Pethtel) on May 3, 2012, and she survives. He is also survived by his daughter, Lisa Clark; by his son, Faron Clark; by his grandkids, Tyler, Nick, Garrett, Lauren, and Jacie; by his step-kids, Travis Miller, David Miller, Erin Fuller, and Nathan Fuller; by his brother & sister-in-law, Bill & Pam Clark; by his sister & brother-in-law, Virginia & Will Deems; as well as several extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis "Hank" & Beulah A. (Rogers) Clark.

A time of visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. on Friday, March 15th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine. A funeral service will immediately follow and be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, with Rev. Paul Gray officiating. During the service, family and friends will have the opportunity to share their favorite memories of Jim and give expression to the fullness of his life. For those unable to attend, a live stream of the service will be available at www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com/live-stream/live-stream .

Burial will be in the Oak Grove Cemetery. Memorials may be made to his family of faith at the "Pilgrim Holiness Church". Donations will be used for their kids' club/youth ministries, which were dear to Jim's heart. Memorial envelopes will be available at the funeral home.