Remembering Garry Clark

My brother-in-law Garry’s journey on earth is complete. Last Saturday, we gathered to celebrate his life. My heart is full and travels between beautiful memories of family times, disbelief that Lewy Body Dementia could take him so quickly, and the comfort of knowing he is home with God.

But mostly, I am so grateful for what he inspired our family to do.

For almost 30 years, our time with Garry and his sweet wife Melissa was spent at holiday family gatherings. Honestly, it was easy to take our family time for granted, as though we would always be together. That changed completely when the news came that Garry had Lewy Body Dementia. We knew the window to make memories and spend precious time together was short. Melissa and I jumped into action, planning as many family trips and get-togethers as possible while Garry could still enjoy himself! We even went to Alaska in June of 2019. Garry was healthy and aware, and we all enjoyed seeing some of God’s most majestic creations.

We are so fortunate that we had a couple of years to make the most of every moment we had left with Garry.

Not everyone gets that opportunity. The lyrics of the song Scars in Heaven say it beautifully:

   If I had only known the last time would be the last time

   I would have put off all the things I had to do

   I would have stayed a little longer, held on a little tighter

   Now what I’d give for one more day with you

Since Garry’s diagnosis and the death of my brother Kurt, I have become more aware that every moment with our loved ones is precious. Make the most of every moment. You never know when you will create the last unforgettable memory.

Download Garry’s Celebration of Life booklet or make memorial contributions to the Glenn Biggs Institute of Alzheimer’s & Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Fund on behalf of Garry Clark.

Tribute video and Celebration of Life booklet created with love by Ja-lene Clark

I thank my God every time I remember you. —Philippians 1:3, NIV