Ivan Christopher "Chris" Clarke

Ivan Christopher Clarke, born on March 5, 1943, in Kingston, Jamaica, was a remarkable individual who made significant contributions to his community and family. The son of Austin Alfred Clarke and Miriam Beatrice Clarke, he was the second oldest of their children. Christopher attended Swift Purcell Boys School. After graduation he enlisted in the Jamaica Defense Force and was later sent to the British army for special training. It was during his time in the military he discovered his passion for boxing.

Eventually, he made his way to the United States, settling in Camden, New Jersey. There, he married Mamie Clarke and became an active member of Local Union 676, honing his carpentry skills. With a keen entrepreneurial spirit, Christopher opened a restaurant named Ivan's Pizza in Camden, NJ.

Later in life, he married  Enid Massias-Clarke, with whom he shared many cherished moments until her passing in July 2024. Christopher’s legacy continues through his three daughters: Christina, Syreeta, and Alika, along with eight grandchildren—Akilah, Amirah, Gyasi, Sanaa, Anari, Jaihdon, Deron, and Kaihla —and three great-grandsons, Ahmad, Zen, and Halo. 

He is also survived by his sisters and brothers, Daisy, Millicent, Sheila, Karen, Tricia, Tilly, Leslie (predeceased), Faith (predeceased), Courtney, Wayne, Alfred, and Shawn alongside numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Ivan Christopher Clarke will be profoundly missed, leaving behind a cherished legacy of love, and resilience. He encapsulates the spirit of "Action" in every endeavor he pursued.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Cancer Society and Alzheimer’s Association in his name.