Gertrude H. Clarke

Gertrude H. Clarke died in her home of natural causes on May 27. Gertrude was born in Colorado on May 16, 1919, and celebrated her 90th birthday with her family on May 16.

Robert and Gertrude Clarke and their three children moved to Alaska in June of 1951. They spent their first year living in Anchorage and moved to Wasilla in June of 1952. Gertrude was a homemaker, small-business owner and community volunteer throughout her life.

Her main focus was her family and she spent her life building a legacy of love and time given freely to family and friends. When her family shares their remembrances of Gertrude, it is always about the time she gave them listening to their fears and joys, playing games with her competitive spirit and simply being each one’s exuberant cheerleader and life coach.

Gertrude joined her late husband Robert, in initiating and participating in the horseback riding program for the Valley’s special needs children.

She drew great delight in seeing the smiles of excitement on the faces of children who had never ridden a horse before.

Because of this, for those who would like to express their love and fondness for Gertrude the family asks that donations be made to the Alaska Special Olympics in her name. This may be done by logging onto their web site at

www.specialolympicsalaska.org.

Gertrude is survived by her daughter Barbara Taylor, daughter and son-in-law, David and Cheryl ZumBrunnen of Wasilla, and her son and daughter-in-law Dale Clarke and Bonnie Brisky of Naples, Fla.,, five grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and the many special adopted grandchildren and great-grandchildren she took into her heart.

Gertrude was laid to rest at the Wasilla Cemetery on May 29, with a small family graveside service.