Robert E. Clarke, 85, of Villanova, PA., died of complications from Alzheimer's disease on Thursday November 18, 2010 at Arden Courts in King of Prussia. He was raised in Pittsburgh by his late parents, John and Leonilda, along with his brother Mel and his sister Jane, who are both since deceased.

Upon reaching his 18th birthday, Mr. Clarke received his diploma from Central Catholic High School and enlisted in the Navy to serve in World War II. He spent the majority of his service on a destroyer escort in the South Pacific. After the war ended, he attended Penn State University on the GI Bill and received his BA in Journalism. He was later recalled into the Navy and spent 2 years serving in the Korean War.

Mr. Clarke started his career as a writer before moving into advertising. His employment took him to Pittsburgh, New York and Philadelphia. While working in New York, he met his future wife, Peg McGowan. They married in April of 1958.

They moved to Philadelphia in 1967 as part of a relocation with Time Inc. Mr. Clarke later changed careers and transitioned into the asset management business when he joined Fidelity Bank. In 1980, he moved to Newbold's Asset Management as their Director of Sales and worked there until his retirement in 1990.

He enjoyed spending time with his family (especially his grandchildren). He liked to play golf and was a member of St. David's Golf Club and Foxfire Golf Club in Naples, FL.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by sons Robert (Karen) of Exeter, NH., Edward (Anne) of Pittsburgh, Peter of Philadelphia and Michael (Lilah) of San Diego, and daughters Ellen Carson (Steve) of Newtown Square and Katharine Verica (Paul) of Charlotte, NC., as well as 10 grandchildren.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday November 23, 10:30 AM at St. Thomas of Villanova Church (Univ. Campus), Lancaster Ave., Villanova, PA. Relatives and friends may call at the Church after 9:30 AM. Interment is private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Alzheimer's Association, Delaware Valley Chapter, 399 Market St., Philadelphia PA 19106 or at www.uso.org