Obituary of Ian McMillan Clark

Sadly, we announce the sudden passing of Ian McMillan Clark (“Clarkie”), in his 77^th year, of London, on March 15, 2025. Born on March 18, 1948 in Glasgow, Scotland. Ian was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend who touched the lives of many with his great sense of humour and infectious smile and laugh!! 

Ian was predeceased by his parents, Mary (McMillan) and William Clark and his big brother Bill. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Diane; his “favourite” son Ryan (Heather), Grandchildren Will and Ellie; his “favourite” daughter Lindsay (Trevor), Grandchildren Evan and Liam; Sister-in-law Nicki and his ‘younger/taller’ brother Brian (Tammy) & Family and Sister-in-law Ginny & Family…plus many family members in Canada and Great Britain.

Ian came to London, Ontario with his family in 1960, but he was always proud of his Scottish heritage and shared his many memories growing up in a Naval family in Scotland and summers in Ireland. Ian had two brothers, his older brother Bill who was also born in Glasgow and younger brother Brian who was born in London. Once he arrived in Canada, he met the love of his life and best friend Diane and were married on August 8^th, 1970, and would have celebrated their 55^th wedding anniversary this year. Together, they built a life with their two children, Ryan and Lindsay, dedicating many years to building a family that was always full of fun and laughter including many trips to Florida and other destinations. He was always proud of their accomplishments, and we were proud to call him our Dad.

Ian dedicated 35 years of his life in Food Research and Quality Control at Labatt Brewing Company in London until his retirement in 2003. Colleagues appreciated his humour and meticulous attention to detail.

Ian was a devoted grandfather and loved his grandchildren who called him lovingly “Papa”. He truly enjoyed going to all events that involved his four grandchildren Evan, Liam, Will and Ellie. He was Evan’s and Liam’s number one baseball fan and would come to as many games as possible throughout many summers and when the boys had a great hit or pitched well, he would say that’s my “grandson”. He also loved watching Will and Ellie play soccer and baseball over the years and always cheered them on from the sidelines. He was a proud Papa and would do anything for them.

Ian had many adventures with Diane and sister-in-law Nicki who travelled all over Ontario and enjoyed many special moments especially in Bayfield, Stratford and Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Ian was a huge sports fan and loved his Glasgow Rangers, his Leafs and Jays…always a faithful and loyal fan…no matter what!! Ian’s passion growing up was soccer, he was the captain of his soccer team and played on many teams over the years with his brother Bill. His daughter has carried this passion and continues to play soccer to this day. And what can we say about Ian’s golf game? For many years Ian played golf every Friday night with his brother Bill and in recent years, he enjoyed playing golf with his brother Brian. He also enjoyed many rounds of golf with his son and daughter, who have carried on his love for the game.

A celebration of Ian’s life will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion Lambeth Branch located at 7097 Kilbourne Road, London on April 26, 2025, from 1:00 – 4:00 pm, with words of remembrance at 3:00 pm.

We are blessed and grateful to have had a man like him in our lives. You will always be in our hearts and remembered dearly as we cherish the many great memories of our Ian, Hubby, Dad and Papa.  We love you! Xoxoxo