Cornish, N.H. — Melvin O. Clark, 83, passed away early Wednesday morning the 17th in his home in Cornish, while surrounded by his family. Melvin was a hardworking, outgoing, and witty man with a penchant for being too early and calling everyone hot-dog. He was born in Ellenburg Depot, N.Y. in a small cabin with a large family. Throughout his life, Melvin lived in many places between Burlington, Vt. and Lebanon, N.H., while contributing to many landmarks along the way. Melvin was a bricklayer by trade before starting business for himself in concrete, which he always joked was easier on his body. From crafting the Redstone Dormitories to creating the hanging fireplace in the Hopkin’s Center, along with thousands of individual residences along the way, you do not have to look far to see his impact on New England. Melvin was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Clark, who he was married to for 60 years. He is survived by two brothers, Harold (Sylvia) and Kenneth (Diane) Clark, as well as his two sons, Jay (Amy) and Alan Clark, and his grandson, Cullen Clark (Sam). Melvin’s wake and funeral will both be provided by Ricker’s Funeral Home in Lebanon, N.H. on Sunday the 28th from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Monday the 29th starting at 11 a.m., respectively. He will be laid to rest in Valley Cemetery, right next to his wife. We know that Melvin Clark is a household name throughout much of the Upper Valley and beyond, as he helped many people throughout the years. As a special request, we would like to extend an invitation to attend his services to all that he knew, even outside of his immediate friends and family. We know that he touched the lives of many people, and would appreciate seeing you all there to honor him. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you donate to the Cornish Fair Association, where he frequently volunteered to raise money for the community. Messages of condolence may be expressed with the family through an online guestbook by visiting www.rickerfuneralhome.com.
