James R. Clarke

James 'Jim" Clarke, age 84, of Omaha, NE, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2025. He was born July 9, 1941 in Fairfield Iowa to the late Woodrow Wilson and Helen Fern (Carter) Clarke. Jim married Carol Keeler on November 16, 1963 in Columbus, Nebraska and they shared 61 loving years together.

Jim graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School in Council Bluffs and the University of Nebraska at Omaha. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he was also a lifelong supporter of the Boy Scouts of America, where he found his greatest joy in mentoring young people.

Jim began his Scouting journey as an 8-year-old boy. He earned the rank of Life Scout, and later dedicated decades as a Scout leader, mentor, and friend. In recognition of his extraordinary service to youth, Jim was awarded the Silver Beaver Award by the Mid-America Council of the Boy Scouts of America-one of the highest honors a council can bestow upon a volunteer. This prestigious award is reserved for those who have made a lasting impact through distinguished service, leadership, and dedication to Scouting. He also completed Wood Badge, the highest level of adult training offered by the BSA, demonstrating his commitment to developing strong leadership skills and serving as a mentor to other leaders. Along with these accomplishments, he received numerous other awards throughout his Scouting journey, each a testament to the countless hours he devoted to mentoring young people, strengthening his community, and living out the values of the Scout Oath and Law.

Whether teaching outdoor skills, leading camping trips, or instilling values of honesty, respect, and service, he inspired countless Scouts to grow into responsible leaders. Many still credit him for shaping the course of their lives.

Outside of Scouting, upon retiring, Jim shared his creativity and skills through his work at Tandy Leather, where he was a dedicated sales associate and instructor. He especially enjoyed teaching classes on leather craft, patiently guiding others in learning the art of working with their hands. His talent for craftsmanship and his love of teaching complemented his Scouting work, as many Scouts and community members benefited from his ability to make learning both practical and fun.

He is survived by his wife Carol, his children Sondra (Luke) Charron, Kevin (Saundra) Clarke, Jeanette Douglas, 6 grandchildren, 6 (soon to be 7) great-grandchildren, brother, Steve (Shari) Clarke and sister-in-law Jo Clarke, and many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Woodrow and Helen Clarke, brother Robert Clarke, son-in-law Lyn Douglas, and various other loved family members.

Services and Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at 11 am with reception to follow. Good Shepherd Funeral Home, 3809 N 90th Street, Omaha NE 68134. Memorials to the family for future designation.

Jim, or as so many called him, 'Mr. Clarke', will be deeply missed but always remembered for his adventurous spirit, steady guidance, and the countless lives he touched along the trail.