Dr. Jeffrey Ray Clark, Col. (Ret.), U.S. Army

February 28, 1945 – April 30, 2025

Dr. Jeffrey Ray Clark lived every day as if it were his last—and on April 30, 2025, he left this world doing what he loved, riding his dirt bike on a beautiful sunny day, just a mile from his beloved home of 47 years in Centennial, Colorado.

Born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, on February 28, 1945, to Ray and June Clark, Jeff graduated from Washington High School in 1963. He attended South Dakota State University, graduating in 1967. A talented athlete, Jeff excelled in both tennis and wrestling and spent many cherished days pheasant hunting.

In one of his many bold moves, Jeff proposed to Connie Jean Ranek after their very first date. Though she told him he was crazy, she married him just months later in June 1967—and they remained devoted partners throughout their lives. Together, they built a rich life of family, adventure, resilience, and enduring love.

Jeff earned his medical degree from Creighton University and served 26 years in the U.S. Army as a general surgeon, reaching the rank of Colonel. A gifted mentor, he touched countless lives through the training of medical residents. After retiring from military service, Jeff continued this calling for another 13 years at Saint Joseph Hospital in downtown Denver—often commuting to work on his motorcycle.

A true outdoorsman and adventurer, Jeff loved to snowmobile, snow ski, water ski, and travel in his RV or on one of his many motorcycles. If it had a motor, he probably owned it—and fixed it himself. He took joy in the natural world, whether in the beauty of a sunrise, the majesty of a tree, or the flight of a bird.

Jeff’s life was rich with meaning—in work, in play, and in the deep relationships he nurtured. He had a booming voice, a huge personality, and a heart to match. He made friends wherever he went and had a unique gift for making people feel seen and cared for. He was a master of fun—known for wild water fights, dumping unsuspecting riders off tubes, waking up the household early to “seize the day,” and always saying “yes” to adventure.

Jeff and Connie faced heartbreak early in their marriage with the loss of their daughter, Sherri, in 1985. Their ability to love and support each other through profound grief became the foundation of a marriage that inspired many.

He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Connie Jean Clark; their children:

Amy Clark Wein (Andy) of Centennial, CO, and their children Wesley (11), Aubrey (8), and Skylar (2)

Aaron James Clark (Sudi) of Salt Lake City, UT, and their children Luciano (13), Antonio (12), and Jack (4)

Jason Ray Clark of Centennial, CO

Dr. Christine Ann Keesling (Jeff) of Springfield, MO, and their children: Dr. Ross Everett Keesling (Andrea) and their children Zoey (10) and Liam (8), Ryan Jeffrey Keesling of Excelsior Springs, MO, Mallory Elida Keesling of New York, NY, and Kayla Marie Mello (Aaron) of Virginia Beach, VA

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Sherri Ann Clark, in 1985.

Jeff is also survived by ten grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. His legacy of love, laughter, hard work, and adventure will live on through each of them.

We are forever grateful for the time we had.

To a life well lived—thank you, Jeff.

Summer Hammond was Jeff and Connie's godchild. Please make any charitable donations directly to:

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