Celebrating the life of Charles Wayne Clark

Charles Wayne Clark, a distinguished patriarch, venerated engineer, and seasoned world traveler, passed away at the age of 71 on June 19, 2023, in New Orleans surrounded by family. Born in Fredericktown, Missouri, in November 1951 to Harley and Veda Clark, Charles, fondly known as Wayne, left an indelible legacy in every facet of life he touched.

Born and raised on a Fredericktown farm, Wayne's journey led him to Cape Girardeau at the age of 12. He attended Cape Central High School where he served on student council, was on the football team, and was a catcher for Babe Ruth and Connie Mack baseball teams. As a man of many talents, he not only played sports, but participated in the arts as well. He played the trombone and played Tom Sawyer riding a unicycle in the high school talent show winning second place. It was at Central High School that Wayne met the love of his life, Renda Schlitt. Their love story began shortly after high school, and together they built a life filled with adventure, love, and endless devotion.

Wayne's life was a testament to hard work and determination. After enlisting in the Air Force and serving honorably for five years as a mechanic stationed in Thailand, he pursued his dream of becoming an engineer. As a first-generation college student, he graduated with academic honors from the University of Rolla Missouri with a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Wayne's career with Exxon was as global and ambitious as the man himself. From his start in the United States, he quickly ascended the ranks, becoming production manager in Malaysia before becoming Lead Country Manager for Exxon Mobil in Equatorial Guinea, Africa. He was a natural host, entertaining dignitaries, ex-pats, and even royalty on the weekends. His retirement in 2010 marked the end of a storied career filled with accomplishment and respect.

However, Wayne's professional success never overshadowed his commitment to his family. He was a man who loved deeply and demonstrated it in his everyday actions. Whether throwing a football with his grandson, attending dance recitals, or celebrating family achievements with a limousine ride to his favorite restaurant, GW Fins, Wayne made sure his loved ones knew they were his pride and joy. His enthusiasm for planning family events often kept him awake at night, a testament to his love and dedication.

Wayne Clark and his grandchildren.Submitted by Cheri Hemelt

Wayne Clark and his grandchildren.Submitted by Cheri Hemelt

Growing up, Wayne had a reputation for extending his home to friends. His generosity and conviviality never waned and, even in his final days, he regaled his loved ones with stories of friendships that spanned a lifetime. As a teenager, his love for adventure often led him to drag race with friends, much to his mother's dismay, and he was a formidable pool player, using his engineering skills to master and teach the game to anyone willing to learn.

In his leisure, Wayne was an avid golfer, annually embarking on golf trips with his buddies from Cape. His life was a rich tapestry of stories and adventures that will continue to inspire all those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Charles Wayne Clark's life was an extraordinary journey of success, love, and adventure. He was a man who gave his all to everything he undertook, leaving an enduring legacy in the corporate world and in the hearts of his family and friends. His memory will forever be cherished by all who knew him, as we remember a life lived to its fullest and a man who left no stone unturned. His was a life of profound impact and love, a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.

Wayne was predeceased by his loving wife of 49 years, Renda Clark. He is survived by his daughter, Dr. Cheri Hemelt, son-in-law Dr. Brent Hemelt, and four adored grandchildren: Andrew, Emily, Taylor and Anna. His devotion to his wife and family was a cornerstone of his life, and his love for them was as boundless as his ambitious spirit.

As the third of five children, Wayne is survived by his cherished sisters, Sue Ann (Mike) Elliott, Linda (Rodger) Deimund, Dianna (Dan) Todt, and his brother-in-law Delmer Lewis. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Harley and Veda Clark, his sister Brenda Lewis, his brother-in-law Mike Elliott, and his niece Lana Durham.

Wayne ClarkSubmitted by Cheri Hemelt

Wayne ClarkSubmitted by Cheri Hemelt

The Clark, Schlitt, and Hemelt families will have visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 11, at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 12, at St. Vincent's Church, 741 N. Forest Dr., Cape Girardeau, and a reception will immediately follow. His final resting place will be in Arlington National Cemetery with his beloved wife in Washington DC.