Captain Michael A. Clark, 75, of Strafford, VT, passed away on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, in Lebanon, NH, surrounded by his loving family. Michael was born on December 24, 1947, to the late Vincent P. and Jane T. (Magee) Clark, in Oceanside, Long Island, NY.

From a young age, Michael wanted to follow in the footsteps of his father and become a firefighter. In his early career, he was a member of the Hartford, V.T. fire department. He went on to become a member of the Hanover, NH Fire Department, an Instructor at the New Hampshire Fire Academy, a FEMA member of Massachusetts Task Force 1. In total Capt. Clark was an active member of the fire service for over 40 years. Prior to joining the fire service, he served in Vietnam and remained a proud Marine Combat Veteran for the rest of his life.

He felt truly blessed to have the ability to help train and learn alongside countless firefighters in the Northeast and throughout the country. Capt. Clark was known for making training captivating , while still ensuring the skills he taught would keep his brothers and sisters  safe. He had a passion for his job that will forever be unmatched.

In his spare time, of which he had little, Michael enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He enjoyed riding his Harley, spending time with his family, especially his much beloved grandchildren and working out at the gym. His dedication to fitness was legendary. He believed a workout was the antidote to most of life's challenges. Taking pride in his physical prowess, he was known to be able to do more push-ups than most in the drill yard, even though many were half his age.

Michael had the ability to make a friend anywhere he went. He had a "wicked" and infectious sense of humor, and if you ever witnessed his full body laughing fits, you couldn't help but join in. Captain Clark had a penchant for nicknames and often coined them for those he loved. His family and friends knew that a job well done meant a kiss on the forehead and if you were lucky, he might even surprise you with a cartwheel. Michael always stood out in the crowd. If it wasn't for his unmatched work ethic and willingness to help another, then it was for his larger-than-life mustache a meme that many of you have used in commemorating his life!

As a devout Catholic, God always held a special place in Michael's heart. Michael took a great deal of comfort in knowing and connecting with his faith. Right up until the moment he died, Michael was praying and speaking to God.

The Fire Service has undoubtedly, lost one of its most influential and knowledgeable instructors. His passion for the job was infectious, and his eagerness to teach was sincere.

His last words upon saying good-bye were often: "I love you… I love you more" to his family. To friends and even strangers, he would sign off with "all the best to your family." Family and work were the hallmarks by which Captain Clark lived his life, demonstrating a deep love and respect for both.

Michael is survived by his wife of 50 years: Susan-Lynne (Gerrity) Clark; their daughters: Kelly Clark, Megan Clark, Rory Clark, and Erin Taylor ; his sons in law: William Madden and Joshua Taylor;  his brother: Peter Clark; and six grandchildren: Darby and Declan Madden, Lulu and Pippa Taylor, and Flynn and Marnie Clark.

Friends and Family are invited to Calling Hours on Friday, April 5, 2024, from 4-8 PM, at the Carrier Family Funeral Home, 38 Range Road, Windham, NH 03087. Note to Firefighters: A Walk Through Will Commence at 5:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at 11 AM, at St. Matthew's Parish, 2 Searles Road, Windham, NH 03087. PARKING FOR BOTH EVENTS: In addition to the parking provided at the funeral home, additional parking for Calling Hours and the Funeral Mass is available at Saint Matthew's Parish, 2 Searles Road, Windham, NH -AND- Searles School and Chapel, 3 Chapel Road, Windham, NH -AND- Windham Co-Op Kindergarten, 12 Industrial Drive, Windham, NH 03087. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit: www.carrierfuneralhome.com.