Gene Morris Clark

Gene M. Clark, age 92, of Hastings, Minnesota, passed away peacefully Friday, March 13, 2026, surrounded by his loving family at Benedictine Senior Living - Regina.

Gene was born on May 18, 1933, in Ruby Township, Chippewa County, Wisconsin, to Chester and Ivy (Taplin) Clark. He was the second oldest of ten children. After graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Army, completing two years of active duty, including time stationed in Korea.

Following his military service, Gene worked at Armour Packing. He later worked at North Star Steel before continuing his career with the Minnesota State Highway Department, where he dedicated many years of service.

Gene was first united in marriage to Vivian Priem in June of 1957 in Duluth, Minnesota. Together they began building their family until Vivian passed away from cancer on July 28, 1980. On August 22, 1981, Gene married Virginia Larson, and together they shared more than 44 wonderful years of marriage filled with love, travel, and family.

Gene was known for his remarkable ability to fix or build nearly anything. He took great pride in his home, always working on improvement projects and making his yard look beautiful. One of his greatest joys was attending his children’s and grandchildren’s activities. He especially enjoyed horse shows, where he and Virginia first met while watching their daughters compete. Gene and Virginia also shared a love of travel, taking many memorable trips together, including cruises to the Caribbean and Hawaii.

Gene is survived by his children, Kimberleen Roberts (James), Debbie Buchardt (Bob), and Cindy Bergmanis (Erik); his grandchildren, Jacque Nordahl (John), Lindsey Lisowski (Lance), Justin Buchardt (Mercedes), Amy Larson, Kelli Adams (Josh), Jenna DeBaere (Pat), Andrea Nord (Matt), Jared Buchardt (Claudia), Samantha Gerard (Adrian), Robbie Rowe (Tori), Maddie Rowe, Jake Bergmanis, and Jenna Bergmanis; 24 great-grandchildren; and his brother, Chester Clark Jr.; and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Clark; his parents, Chester and Ivy Clark; his first wife, Vivian; his son, Dallas Larson; and his eight siblings.

Gene was a quiet and kind man who never needed many words to make those around him feel loved. A man of few words but plenty of smiles, his steady presence and deep love for his family will be dearly missed.

A celebration of life for Gene and Virginia will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, 400 W 9th St, Hastings, with a visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the start of the service. A reception will follow the service at the church, with burial held at Lakeside Cemetery.

Arrangements are being handled by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel.