CLARKE: A friend forever

I am deeply saddened by Ric Clarke’s passing. He has been a friend since our early days at the Coeur d’Alene Press more than 35 years ago. Taking me under his wing, we managed to report the news and have a good time doing it. Humor ran amok. It kept us sane while dealing with some very serious stories.

His obituary captured his personality to a tee. To say that Ric was hilarious was exactly that. We would laugh, laugh and laugh some more. His quick wit and humor was amazing. Just when you thought nothing more could be said, Ric came up with one more line.

He was a caring, thoughtful and genuine person. When I first came to Coeur d’Alene, he and his wife Mary invited me to their house and made a point of including me many times. They did not want me to feel alone. This began a lifetime of friendship.

He was a gifted writer beyond belief. It was important to him. He was very honest, never afraid to speak his mind. He had courage and integrity.

He loved his wife and kids.

It was just comforting to know he was out there. He will be missed.

SYLVIA BLAKLEY

Coeur d’Alene