CLARKE: A writer's writer

I was sorry to hear of Ric Clarke’s death.

When I was editor at the Bonner County Daily Bee so long ago, and I started reading Ric Clarke bylines in the Coeur d’Alene Press, this man, I thought, can write. Who is this guy? I was in awe of someone who could write so well and about difficult subjects.

Later, I had the good fortune to work with Ric for several years at The Press. He was extremely bright and witty, but also very humble and kind. I know I annoyed the hell out of him many days, but he only showed his exasperation a few times. I recall that once, when I said something that was pretty stupid, rather than berate me or finally let me have it, he stood up without saying anything and walked away. He was tolerant of others not at his level of smarts and often just shook his head instead of getting mad.

His book, “Clip Files,” contained some of his best work. A piece he did on following the plight of a dog picked up by the Humane Society, and its eventual adoption, was brilliant. I remember thinking, “I wish I had written that.” At the end of that story, he added a note that if the dog had not found a home and was going to be euthanized, he would have adopted it.

From what I gathered, Ric Clarke cared deeply about the people and places and the animals of North Idaho. It showed in his writing, and his life.

BILL BULEY

Lihue, Hawaii