Trapper John Clark
October 11, 1938, to January 25, 2025

Kenneth Johnathan Clark (or Trapper John, to most) was born in Detroit Michigan on October 11, 1938, to father Constantine ‘Gus’ Clark and mother Josephine. He had three younger sibling — sisters JoAnne and Connie, and brother Bill. At a very young age he and his family moved to Wyoming where they worked on a ranch. He loved his childhood in Wyoming and shared many fond memories about the beautiful state where he was raised. He’d often remember the countryside and rivers. He’d share stories about the winters and having to keep pipes warmed with a fire so they wouldn’t freeze. He had maps of Wyoming where he’d point out points of interest and share his childhood.

When John was of age, he joined the US military as a Marine, where he served for seven years, from 1956 to 1963. The marines sent him to many places around the U.S. including California, which is when he discovered beautiful Humboldt County. The minute he came to the California redwoods he fell in love. To him, Humboldt County was the most breathtaking place he had ever been. He had decided he needed to start a life here. Something in the air called him to the redwoods. He got a job at the mill in Scotia and worked evenings bar tending in Rio Dell. He quickly became a part of the community and soon after settling into his new home, he met the love of his life, Loreta Tompkins.

They married and had two daughters of their own — Brenda Moore and Doreen Shaw — and would later welcome his granddaughter Brittany McBroome and great-grandchildren from an extended family: Cayla, Luke and Zac Lynch. His dream came true, living among the redwoods on a quiet ranch in the Avenue of the Giants while raising his children alongside his beautiful bride. He then started logging for Lewis Logging & Outfits, where he worked for 30 years, and later became a truck driver for Wendt Construction, where he retired after 17 years.

He had tons of hobbies, skills and wisdom to share. He was a hunter and would also spend time gardening produce on the ranch to feed his family. He had a strong love for all things, nature and the outdoors. He’d challenge himself to live primitively mostly living off the land, he truly had the heart of a mountain man. He had a skill in trapping which gifted him the nickname “Trapper John.” He was president of the Tall Trees Mountain Man Club, where he would help facilitate and run the Rendezvous in Smith River, making a space for people to gather as a community and join in; black powder shoots, tall tales, knife and tomahawk axe throwing, and snipe hunts for the peewees (kids). He was also an active member of the Fish and Game Advisory Commission.

Trapper John was also a very creative soul; he enjoyed blacksmithing, creating art, sewing clothing, basketweaving and beading intricate jewelry and designs. He always loved staying busy and active. He competed in many logging competitions and has taken home countless awards. He also received many awards at trap shoots and black powder shoots.

Trapper John was very sociable and could easily make friends anywhere he went. He would cultivate long-lasting friendships that would last a lifetime, a real connection that made everyone truly feel like family. Trapper John was a young-spirited goofball, full of love, wisdom, stories, and creativity that he shared throughout his life. Trapper John Clark took his last breath on this earth on January 25, 2025, at the Providence Redwood Memorial Hospital, surrounded by family and friends.

Trapper John; son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. We love you dearly. We miss you. Goodbyes are never easy, but we know you’re always with us. He had so much love for his community and everyone that has come into his life. Trapper’s family would love to thank his huge community of friends that has made for a soft landing during this difficult time.

The family will be holding a drop-in memorial on Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Wharfinger Building, downstairs in the Bay Room, in Eureka. There will be light snacks, or you’re welcome to bring something to share. However, this is a strict NO ALCOHOL event. There will also be an open mic for those who would like to share a happy memory. Open to all that would like to join in Trapper John’s celebration of life.

Written by his loving granddaughter, Brittany.

Grandpa Trapper, I am heartbroken, and I miss you so much. You were the greatest grandpa with such a rich life. I will always treasure the lessons you taught me, and I will hold onto all the happy memories tightly. I love you. Rest peacefully, grandpa <3

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of John Clark’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.