W. Ross Clark II went to join God's choir of Heavenly Angels on the evening of Saturday, December 19, 2009. (Actually, we're pretty sure he's leading the choir by now). Ross was born on March 17, 1974 and spent his 35 years making beautiful music and bringing joy to those around him. He also fought a nearly life-long battle with Type 1 diabetes with a strength and grace that serves as an inspiration to all who knew him.
Ross finally decided it was time to move on to a bigger and better life in the spirit. He leaves behind a loving circle of family and friends and a legacy of music that will live on forever. Those who wish to honor Ross' memory can do so by enjoying his music and making music in their own lives. His musical legacy also lives on through Ross's Gift: The W. Ross Clark II Award for Outstanding Musicianship, an annual scholarship awarded to a senior graduating from Oneida High School, Ross's alma mater. Anyone wishing to contribute is encouraged to email joannasero@gmail.com for information.
Ross wanted so much for his family and friends to stay in the fight for the cure and had great hopes for a variety of research initiatives, including stem cell research. He prayed that he would somehow be part of making sure that no other child, no other teenager, no other young adult would experience the "postponed promises/delayed dreams" brought on by the complications of diabetes. If you would like to join in the fight for a cure, please consider making a donation in his name to the American Diabetes Association.
Ross was given the incredible gift of 8 additional years to make music through the miracle of organ donation. Please consider helping to give the gift of life by becoming an organ donor. To find out how to become a donor in your state, visit www.donatelife.net.
Hey Myrtle, going to miss you. You touched my life in so many ways. I will never forget you and your family on Hamilton Ave and that summer of delivering papers, and listening to you play guitar "Summer of 69" over and over and over. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Good luck with your next journey.
Family and friends who have been a part of Ross’s life story and have shared his love of music are invited to an evening of music and memories in celebration of his legacy of courage and creativity:
First Day of Spring Saturday, March 20th, 2010 5:00-7:00 p.m. Lakeview Restaurant 1017 Golf lane, Oneida, NY (315)361-6111 (across from Sunset Lake in Kenwood, New York)
I treasure the friendship that Ross and I shared in high school. He was one of the most beautiful people that I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I was saddened by his passing. We never stayed in contact after I graduated but the years that I knew him are treasured. I recently found my prom album and was taken back to high school as I looked through it. I also listened to his music for the first time...what an inspiration. Rest in peace my old friend. You were the best prom date ever!!!