HAVERHILL — Theodore W. Clarke, resident of Haverhill, died on August 29, 2021 at St. Elizabeth Medical Center. He was 69 years old.
Born in Everett on August 25, 1952, Ted was one of two children of the late Wallace and Ruth A. (Mersereau) Clarke. He grew up in Everett, graduating from Everett High School in 1970. He enjoyed playing horn and marching in the Statesman Drum and Bugle Corps.
Ted attended college at the University of Denver, before serving in the Peace Corps for eight years, as a teacher in Niger, Africa. He developed a deep connection with the people and the land, and that stayed with him throughout his life.
After spending time back in Boston, directing and teaching an education program for Haitian refugees, Ted moved to Washington D.C. and went to work for the USDA, the African Training for Leadership and Advanced Skills (ATLAS) program, providing opportunities for higher education and leadership development skills in 30 countries in Africa and the Caribbean with the assistance of the U.S. higher education community.
Ted was very intelligent and giving and enjoyed a life of learning, conversation, and unbelievable adventures. When not traveling abroad and impacting lives, Ted also enjoyed collecting, trivia (Jeopardy), and the theater.
Ted was the dear brother of the late Douglas E. Clarke and his surviving wife, Cynthia. Loving uncle to Amber Clarke. Caring godfather to Adam Clarke, his wife, Kayla, and great nephews Logan and Jason Clarke. He will be missed by his many loving cousins and close friends.
Relatives and friends gathered in honor of Ted’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Friday, September 3 from 3-5 p.m., and again for his funeral service, celebrated at 5 p.m. Masks were kindly requested.
In lieu of flowers, gifts in Ted’s memory may be made to the Peace Corps Partnership Program, https://www.peacecorps.gov/donate/
For directions or online tribute please visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
