Captain Michael L. Clark, Sr.

Captain Michael L. Clark, Sr., of Youngstown, NY, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026, in Leesburg, Florida, under the care of hospice. Born on December 1, 1944, he was the son of the late Herman C. and Alice L. Clark.

Michael was raised at Fort Niagara in Youngstown and was a proud graduate ofLewiston-Porter High School. His childhood along the river sparked a lifelong love of the water and ultimately shaped his life’s greatest passion, becoming a sea captain.Throughout his life, Michael embraced a remarkable variety of vocations. He worked the docks in Youngstown, served at Old Fort Niagara, trained dolphins in the Florida Keys, worked as a dog trainer, and spent time as an over-the-road driver and truck-driving instructor. His most meaningful and dedicated service came through his over 10-year career as a Welfare Fraud Investigator for Erie County.

Above all, Michael was known for his devotion to the sea. He served as an adult leader with the Sea Explorers, assisted with tall ships, and fulfilled countless roles as a captain, teaching, guiding, and sharing his maritime knowledge with enthusiasm and pride. He was the relief captain of the Moon Dance for many years.

Michael will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his deep love of family, and the many lives he touched through his service, mentorship, and dedication.

He is survived by his loving children, Michelle (Greg Sr.) Robertson, Michael Clark Jr., Kimberly Clark Harrison and David (Kelli) Clark; Michael was the cherished grandfather of Greg Jr. (Ellen), Amanda, Abigail, Morgan (Autumn), Dustin, Devin, Ian (Pepper), Cullen (Sydney), April, AnnaBella, Gage and Jacob; adored great-grandfather of Briella, Caspian and Rhett; and caring brother Anthony (Gaylynn Long) Clark. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Sullivan’s Division, Naval Sea Cadet Corps, Inc., Buffalo or Youngstown Volunteer Fire Company, Inc.

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