ELLINWOOD — Clarence E. Marker, 89, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026.
Born on June 14, 1936, in Ellinwood, Kan., Clarence lived a life marked by service, hard work, humor, and deep devotion to the people he loved. He spent many years in Casa Grande, Ariz., before recently relocating to Santa Maria, Calif.
Clarence proudly served his country in the United States Army and later enjoyed a long and successful career with the Southern California Gas Company. He was respected for his strong work ethic, practical skills, and his ability to connect with others through humor, quick wit, and a steady, dependable presence.
He married the love of his life, Sally Gaudette Marker, and together they shared many happy years. Although Clarence had no children of his own, Ron and Sally Anne Smith of Nipomo, Calif., and Don McKinnon of Downey, Calif., were family to him in every sense of the word. He was also blessed with many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought him tremendous joy.
Clarence shared close bonds with his nephews, Kevin and Cindy Blevins of St. George, Utah, and Doug and Karen Blevins of Osage Beach, Mo., as well as his niece, Diane Barker of Osage Beach, Mo. He treasured his relationships with their children, remaining a loving and steady presence across generations.
In his free time, Clarence enjoyed boating, fishing, golfing, RV camping, playing table games, and working on old cars. He especially loved restoring and repairing classic automobiles and greatly valued time spent with his good friend, Harold ‘Mac’ McMullen. Known for his humor and storytelling, he could light up any room with a joke or clever remark.
Clarence will be laid to rest at Hillcrest Cemetery beside his beloved father, Clarence ‘Shorty’ Marker, and his mother, Vineta Marker on Sat., June 20th, 2026 at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or a local Alzheimer’s organization, a cause that was important to Clarence throughout his lifetime.
Funeral arrangements provided by
Minnis Chapel
113 N. Main St.
Ellinwood, KS 67526
Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, June 20, 2026
