William “Duke” Clark

Duke passed away on November 29, 2023 in Clearwater, Florida. A place he called home for the last 25 years of his life. He is survived by his children David (wife Valerie) and Lisa. He was born in Cranston, RI to Mary Lopes and Alfred Clark. He met and married Barbara D’Ordine and moved to Santa Barbara. They had 3 children Elizabeth Anne (Beth), David William and Lisa Marie. He was grandfather to 6 grandchildren; Duke, Troy, Dre, Vinny, Desirea and Johnnie and great grandfather to Marcus, Keith, Miya, Amadeus and Langston.

After the death of his parents at a young age, Duke worked hard to become a successful business owner and General Contractor. He was involved in many projects around town; Santa Barbara Zoo, where he donated time and materials to building the first bathroom and the Chumash Casino bingo hall. He also successfully reopened the Cliff Room on the Mesa.

Duke and his family spent their summers at Lake Nacimiento. He co-founded North Shore Ski and Boat Club, organizing himself and 30 members to purchase and develop the land. This passion project was very dear to him and Barbara and created wonderful memories with their children.

Duke was an avid billiards player at the Santa Barbara Elks #613 and played in a yearly tournament in Oregon. His passion for cars encompassed restoring them to their original brilliance. He also built a kit car replica of a 34 Ford Coupe, which he entered in many car shows.

Duke was preceded in death by his wife Barbara and daughter Beth.

There will be a celebration of life in February.