Ruth Clark, 90

Ruth Pauline Clark

Ruth (Paula) Clark passed into eternity on Sept. 3, 2021, just eight days before her 91 birthday in her home in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. She was known as either Pauta or Polly by her friends and family.

She was born Sept. 11, 1930, in Bozeman, Mont. to Henry and MaryAnn Buffington, one of seven children. Her parents separated eventually and Paula lived with her mother, eventually moving to Arkansas. When she was 16, Paula left Arkansas and returned to Bozeman, Mont. She worked at the Baxter Hotel as a waitress, and met and married Gene Clark in 1951. They soon moved to California where they lived in both Hawthorne and Santa Ana for most of their lives. Late in life, they moved to Spokane, Wash. until Gene passed away in 2002. Paula then soon moved into a retirement home in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho to be near her son.

Paula spent her life as a career waitress, working coffee shops in Orange County and eventually became a contract banquet waitress for major events and conferences, primarily at the Disneyland Hotel. She had the great privilege to serve presidents, politicians and celebrities. She enjoyed several events she worked at the El Toro Marine Base, where she received an accommodation for exemplary service.

Paula is survived by her son, Curtis Clark and his wife Debbie (Dalton Gardens, Idaho), her grandson Dustin Clark and Ashley Stainbrook (Hayden, Idaho), her grandson Brandon and Keiki Clark (Eugene, Ore.) and her granddaughter Raechelle and Grant Hoki (Santa Monica, Calif.), and was blessed with six grandchildren and one great great granddaughter. A second great great granddaughter is expected soon. She is also survived by three of her sisters, Carol Fry (Spokane Valley, Wash.), MaryAnn Morgan (Mesa, Ariz.) and Marie Livingstone (Westminster, Calif.). Her extended family includes numerous cousins, nieces and nephews from all over the western United States.

Paula lived nearly five years at North Star Retirement Home, and made friends with the very kind staff who provided her care. She was loved by many here, and Paula's family is eternally thankful for the kindness and care she received. The family also wants to thank Hospice of North Idaho for their care in her final weeks.

Family and friends are all welcome to attend services at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 26, at Heritage Funeral Home in Spokane, Wash. Viewing will begin at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, Paula's family asks that you consider a donation to Hospice of North Idaho.