Mary Amelia Clark

Eulogy for Mary Amelia Clark

December 1, 1925 – October 30, 2025

Today we gather to honor and celebrate the life of Mary Amelia Clark — a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, sister, teacher, and friend. Mary’s story began in Medicine Hat, Alberta, where she was born in December 1925 to her parents, Michael and Amelia Hnatiuk.

She spent her early years in Suffield, Alberta, before her family moved to Chancellor, where she completed her elementary schooling. Mary had a bright and curious mind, and her love of learning led her to pursue a teaching certificate — a choice that reflected her lifelong dedication to helping others grow and succeed.

While attending high school in Cluny, Mary met a young man who would change her life — Mickey Clark. Their paths crossed in the dormitory there, and from that moment on, they were rarely apart. Mary and Mickey were married on July 22, 1947, beginning a partnership filled with hard work, laughter, and deep devotion.

Together, they made their home on the family farm in the Wintering Hills. Life on the farm was never easy, but Mary faced every challenge with resilience, grace, and an unshakable sense of humor. She loved to entertain — balancing the duties of farm life with the care of her home and the nurturing of her children.

When Mickey later entered public service and politics, Mary stood steadfastly by his side — his partner in every sense. Her quiet strength, kindness, and faith anchored their lives together.

Mary devoted much time to the order of Eastern Star and was a past Queen of the Sakkara Temple No. 115

Mary’s legacy lives on through her children, Neil Clark and her late daughter Sherrill Benns, and through her beloved grandchildren — Colton and Dustin Clark, and Nevada and Tanner Benns.

She is also survived by her sisters Helen Hvengaard and Rose Cousins, and predeceased by her brothers John and Kenneth Hnatiuk, as well as by many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will miss her deeply.

Those who knew Mary will remember her warmth, her gentle wisdom, and her ability to make everyone feel welcome. Whether through her teaching, her friendship, or a simple shared cup of tea, Mary had a way of making people feel valued and cared for.

At 99 years young, Mary’s life was a remarkable journey — one defined not by what she had, but by what she gave. She gave love. She gave time. She gave the best of herself to everyone around her.  Her eight course meals will be remembered through out time.

Though we will miss her dearly, we take comfort in knowing that Mary is reunited now with her beloved Mickey and her daughter Sherrill — together again in peace.

May we honor her memory by living as she did — with compassion, strength, and a generous heart.

Rest in peace, Mary. You have lived well, and you are loved always.