Greenfield, MA – It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William C. Clark, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who left us on October 9, 2025, at Baystate Hospital in Springfield, Massachusetts, due to a sudden illness. Born on January 30, 1941, in Orange, Massachusetts, Bill was raised by his loving grandmother, Millura Merritt Clark and his devoted sister, Ethel Hutchinson.
Bill’s life was marked by his unwavering dedication to his family and community. He married his cherished wife, Joan Chaney, on October 9, 1965, and together they built a life filled with love and support. Bill is preceded in death by his beloved wife Joan, as well as his brothers Harold, Merritt, and Jason Clark, whose memories he held dear.
He is survived by his daughter Shari Derose and her partner Jim Bitzer, his son Al Chaney and his wife Cheri, and his cherished grandchildren: Laurel Derose and her partner Dylan Evans, Albert Chaney, Jen Madewell, and William Chaney. They will carry forward his legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering support.
Bill dedicated over three decades to Franklin Medical Center, where he worked tirelessly until his retirement in 2006. His commitment to the hospital community was extraordinary; he was known for his involvement in the hospital softball team, organizing the Christmas party, and planning summer picnics for employees and their families. Bill was always ready to lend a helping hand, taking charge of snow removal so that nurses could leave with clean cars. His spirit of service and camaraderie left a lasting impression on all who worked with him.
A proud lifetime member of the Greenfield Moose and Elks clubs, Bill also served on the board of Directors of the Franklin County Fair. He found immense joy in planting flowers and mowing grass in preparation for the fair, where he also served on the security team. The compliments he received on his beautiful flowers brought him a sense of pride and accomplishment.
Bill’s love for sports was well-known; he was an avid bowler and ping pong player in his younger years. His passion extended to softball and snowmobiling, and he was a devoted fan of local football and the Boston Red Sox. Sports brought him joy, but it was his genuine interest in people that truly defined him.
Bill’s entire existence revolved around helping others. He had an innate desire to care for friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, and even strangers. He believed in self-reliance and took pride in not depending on others, embodying a spirit of generosity and compassion.
As we gather to celebrate Bill’s life, his family welcomes you to join them for the funeral service at the Kostanski Funeral Home 220 Federal St. Greenfield, MA on Friday October 24, 2025, at 11AM with a visitation time from 10AM-11AM. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Franklin County Fair, an organization that carried much meaning to Bill. Donations can be sent to Franklin County Fairgrounds P.O. Box 564, Greenfield, MA 01302.
Bill’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all the doctors and nurses who cared for him over the past eight years. Your compassion and dedication did not go unnoticed.
William C. Clark was a remarkable man whose legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His love, kindness, and spirit of generosity will continue to inspire us all.
For condolences, please visit www.kostanskifuneralhome.com.
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