Dr. J.F. Gates Clarke Jr.

Dr. John Frederick Gates Clarke Jr, age 88 of Wilmington, passed away peacefully after a long illness at his residence on Monday May 9, 2022. He was surrounded by loving friends and family 

Born on November 11, 1933 in Pullman, Washington to the late John Frederick Gates Clarke Sr and Thelma Canterbury Miesen. 

Gates attended and graduated from Washington State University and later Purdue University where he obtained his Doctorate. Gates was employed as an Analytical Chemist with Hercules for over 30 years, prior to his retirement. 

An avid golfer and stamp collector, Gates was actively involved over the years as the treasurer for the Delaware Golf Association and the Wilmington Stamp Club. 

For many years, Gates operated Clarke Stamps where he proudly collected and sold many stamps.

Gates is survived by his wife of 65 years Janet Clarke (nee Mulliken) along with their children Brian Clarke and his wife (Melissa) of Bear; daughter Valerie C. Deely of Newark (Bob Wilson). Additionally, Gates leaves behind his sister Carol Lewis. He was blessed with four grandchildren and one great-grandson. 

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Compassionate Care Hospice and all the medical professionals who assisted the family. 

The family will accept friends and guests for a visitation on Friday May 20, 2022 from 10-1130am at the Doherty Funeral Home located at 3200 Limestone Road, Wilmington DE 19808. 

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to one of the following organizations, The Alzheimers Foundation or the Wilmington Stamp Club.

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