In Memory of Lawrence D. Clark
Larry Clark, 84, passed away November 8, 2019. He was born on December 10, 1934 to Newton and Elsie (Harper) Clark in Lansing, Michigan. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Robert and Herb; two sisters, Hazel and Patricia; and great-grandson, Oliver. He is survived by his wife, Doris; two sons, David (Margaret) Clark and Daniel (Sally) Clark; two daughters, Dianne (Michael) Bone and Dottie Stevens; ten grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two brothers, Bill and Dennis; two sisters, Betty and Sharon; half-brother, Russell; and two half-sisters, Mary Lynn and Phyllis. Larry was a member of St. Gerard Catholic Church.
At the age of 21, Larry began L.D. Clark Companies with a pickup truck, a wheelbarrow and a couple of two-by-fours. With his pioneering spirit and dedication to quality, he went on to transform the Lansing area and contribute significantly to the concrete industry.
In 1965, Larry incorporated his business, specializing in residential and commercial poured walls and flatwork. His commitment to efficient customer service led him to expand into residential and commercial excavation, site development, and water and sewer services with L.D. Clark Excavating. His high-quality work popularized poured-wall foundations in Lansing construction so that, by the early 1990s, nearly 90 percent of projects in the area used poured foundations.
Through L.D. Clark Building Company, Larry introduced tilt-up construction to the mid-Michigan market. Clark Companies proceeded to build a series of facilities that substantially contributed to the quality of life and economy of the Lansing area.
Serving in multiple leadership roles, Larry was one of the founding members and was the first president of the central Michigan chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors. He was a member and strong advocate of the Home Builder’s Association of Greater Lansing, a founding member of the Concrete Foundations Association, a member of the National Association of Concrete Contractors, a founding member and executive director of Builders Redi Mix, a founding member and executive director of the Tilt-Up Concrete Association, a member and influencer in the growth and advancement of the Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation, and a member of the Lansing Chamber of Commerce. Larry was recognized nationally for his industry innovations.
In 2012, Larry was inducted into the Michigan Construction Hall of Fame at Ferris State University, receiving the Distinguished Contractor Award. Larry has also received countless honors for his service to the community, including special tributes from Eaton County State Representative Frank Fitzgerald and former Michigan governor, John Engler, and he also received the Delta Township Business Person of the Year Award.
Larry will also be remembered for his contractor appreciation parties that he hosted at his home.
Memorial Mass took place at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, November 14, 2019 at St. Gerard Catholic Church, 4437 W. Willow with Father John P. Klein officiating. Visitation was held 5–8 p.m. on Wednesday, November 15 with a 7:00 p.m. Vigil Service at Tiffany Funeral Home, 3232 W. Saginaw, and one hour prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.