Chester Franklin Clark

Chester Franklin (Frank) Clark, 91 years old of Asheville, died on March 16. Services are planned for Tuesday, March 22 at 11 am at Bethel United Methodist Church at 1050 Riceville Rd, Asheville, NC. Groce Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Frank was born November 24, 1930 in Asheville, NC, the son of Joseph Leonard Clark and Anna Elizabeth (Miller) Clark. He was married to Martha Ann (Lunsford) Clark on July 28, 1956.

Frank is known by family and friends as someone who had a consistently positive attitude. He was always appreciative and thankful for what others did for him. Looking out for others in the family was always important to Frank, helping those who were elderly and helping guide and support those who were younger.
Frank volunteered to serve his country in active combat in Korea. After boot camp he was chosen to attend Officer Candidate School and received his commission as 2nd Lieutenant, eventually achieving the rank of Captain.

After serving in the military, Frank worked full time and attended night school for 5 years at AB Tech. He then graduated from North Carolina State University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering at age 33. He achieved Professional Engineer designation in 3 states and worked for several corporations, retiring from Anheuser Busch in 1993.

Frank served his community throughout his life. He was a little league coach, a trustee at church, a member of the Board of the Riceville Community Center and president of the RV Club of Asheville. He was generous with his money as well as his time, giving to local, national and international charities. He was never too busy to help a friend.

In his retirement, he enjoyed traveling in the motorhome with Martha, wife of almost 60 years, seeing most of the US and Canada. In the most recent years, playing pinochle with friends was the highlight of his week.

Survivors include: son Michael Leonard Clark (Wanda) of Bluefield, VA; daughter Donna Jill White (Gary) of Carrollton, TX; grandchildren Lindsey Case (Jeff) of Simpsonville, SC, Bradley White of Asheville, NC.

Frank is preceded in death by his parents, wife and siblings Edith (Clark) Woody, Judith Clark and Mary (Clark) Brown.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bethel United Methodist Church, 1050 Riceville Road, Asheville, NC 28805, or to MANNA Food Bank, 627 Swannanoa River Road, Asheville, NC 28805.