June Marie Clark

Obituary

Born in 1950, June Clark enjoyed the outdoors from the beginning as noted by her many awards as a Senior Girl Scout, her efforts in renewing and restoring the environment on Egmont Key as well as her love of kayaking and canoeing Florida’s rivers, bays and inlets. Her fame as a pet lover earned her many new friends who entrusted the care of theirs to her, much to the delight of all around.

June was a 1969 graduate of Plant High School, and after attending the University of South Florida, she spent 8 years serving our country in the Air Force serving in various locations including her favorite,

Guam (where America’s day starts, as she would frequently remind people). She was the first female jet engine mechanic to be stationed there, and proved to be an invaluable part of the mission. She loved working on her B-52 bombers, not allowing herself to be reminded of how they were used in Viet Nam to which they were sent. Her very small hands allowed her to reach into the engine areas the men could not, providing her the ability to make repairs without having to drop the entire engine from the plane. She was frequently cited for her outstanding work there, even being featured in an article in the Stars and Stripes for accomplishing the task of perfectly aligning torque plates on her first attempt, a rare if not first accomplishment. Her fellow airmen sent her home with the barracks canteen bell, which hangs on our front porch today.

As an active member of the American Legion, June received the National Headquarters’ recognition for the outstanding work she performed as Service Officer for our area. She was gratified by helping fellow veterans in need, especially those who did not know they were eligible for benefits at all.

June is survived by her loving wife, companion and soul mate, Kathy Lanier, her sisters Pat LeVarge and Nancy Hallfin and all our many family members, whom she loved deeply. She is mostly grieved by her beloved cats Barnum, Bailey and Missy.

An Irish Wake will be held Saturday, 2 pm November 27 at Dale Mabry American Legion Post 139, 3818 W Bay Vista Ave, across from Britton Plaza. Phone #813-839-6740. A short program will begin at 2:30. If you wish to speak a few words in her memory please let the emcee know ahead of time, and let’s all keep the personal and funny stories about this amazing woman for after the ceremony. Sandwiches and finger foods will be served, and as always dishes are welcome. A band will play from 6-10 pm

We look forward to celebrating June’s life with you.

Donations: Life Path Hospice and Tampa General Hospital