Mark Clark Poplar Bluff MO Death and Obituary – The small town of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, and the tight-knit community of Greers Ferry Lake in Arkansas are mourning the loss of 66-year-old Mark Clark, who tragically passed away following a boat accident at Greers Ferry Lake on the night of Thursday, April 24, 2025. Mark’s death has left a profound sense of loss among his family, friends, and the many people who had the privilege of knowing him.
Mark, originally from Flora, Illinois, had a deep connection to Greers Ferry Lake, a place that had been a significant part of his life for over four decades. His family had spent countless summers at Devil’s Fork Resort, where they owned property. It was here that Mark created cherished memories with his loved ones, enjoying the beauty and tranquility of the lake. This area was not just a recreational spot for him but a sanctuary where he and his family formed bonds that lasted a lifetime.
Mark’s close friend, Steve Carpenter, expressed the community’s deep sorrow, reflecting, “It’s devastating to all of us. Any boat accident is tragic, but when it’s a friend of yours, it hits home.” The suddenness and unexpected nature of Mark’s death have left a void that is felt not only by his family but also by the broader Greers Ferry Lake community.
The tragic accident occurred when Mark’s boat crashed into a pylon of a bridge that spans the lake. His wife, Terri Clark, had spoken with him around 11 p.m. that evening, unaware that it would be their last conversation. The boat was traveling at full throttle when it veered off course and collided with the pylon. It is believed that Mark was ejected from the boat during the crash. Despite immediate efforts to locate him, authorities had not recovered Mark’s body by the following Friday, prompting an extensive search by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
The search was a challenging operation, as the lake is known for its depth, reaching up to 100 feet in some areas. Sonar equipment and specialized search boats were deployed to scan the lake floor, with debris from a previous bridge complicating the process. The search operation highlighted the inherent dangers of the lake, but the community remained hopeful that Mark would be found. As the days passed, however, it became clear that the loss was not only a devastating blow to his family but to the entire area.
Known for his deep faith, generosity, and kindness, Mark Clark was a man who touched the lives of everyone he met. A devout Christian, Mark’s life was marked by his unwavering faith and his commitment to helping others. Steve Carpenter described him as “very kind, very generous,” noting that “everyone that knew Mark, loved Mark.” His loss is felt deeply by his family, friends, and the community that had long benefited from his spirit of kindness and support.
In the wake of this tragedy, the community of Greers Ferry Lake has rallied around Mark’s family, offering emotional and practical support. Local businesses have reached out to provide food and comfort, underscoring the tight-knit nature of the community Mark had been an integral part of for many years.
Mark Clark is survived by his wife, Terri, and their children. His untimely passing has left a significant emotional and psychological void in the lives of his family, friends, and the broader Poplar Bluff and Greers Ferry Lake communities. In the days ahead, a memorial service will be held to celebrate Mark’s life and honor the legacy he leaves behind—one defined by kindness, generosity, and faith.
As the search for Mark’s body continues, his loved ones remain united in their grief, holding onto the memory of the man who made a lasting impact on all who knew him. Mark’s tragic death serves as a reminder of life’s unpredictability, but his legacy will endure in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to experience his love, faith, and unwavering support. Mark Clark will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Rest in peace, Mark.