Oliver Perry Clarke, son of Dr. Henry and Lorinda (Coon) Clarke, was born in the town of Walworth, Wis., January 24, 1841.
He accepted Christ the spring of 1859, and united with the Walworth Seventh Day Baptist Church, of which he continued a member till called home. He was chosen deacon and was ordained to that sacred office in the spring of 1880.
He was married June 2, 1866, to Lucinda Hulbert. There were four children born to this union: Helen E., Edna L., Dr. Charles P., and Milton J. Helen E., wife of Rev. E. M. Holston, passed away on August 16, 1926. Mr. Clarke leaves a wife, three children, thirteen grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, a brother, and many friends to mourn his loss. He passed away the morning of March 27, 1927, being 86 years, 2 months, and 3 days of age.
Mr. Clarke enlisted in the Civil War, December, 1861, in Company K., of the Thirteenth Regiment Wisconsin Volunteers, infantry. He served three years and two months. His family has an unusual history linked up with the history of the United States. His grandfather was a soldier in the Revolutionary War. His father was in the War of 1812. Three brothers of his family were in the Civil War and he had a son and two grandsons in the World War. From this we see that the family has been closely connected with the war struggles through which this country has passed.
Farewell services were had from the church March 29, and his body was laid to rest in the village cemetery. The service was conducted by the pastor, Rev. E. Adelbert Witter, who spoke from James 4: 14. E. A. W.
