Lester A. Clarke ’43/M.S. ’55 died Sept. 18, 2023, at Avera Mother Joseph Manor in Aberdeen at age 102.
Clarke, of Aberdeen, was selected as a Distinguished Alumnus in 1994.
Clarke graduated from Wessington High School and earned a scholarship to attend South Dakota State College, where he majored in agriculture. After graduation he served in the U.S. Navy for three years and married his college sweetheart, Charlotte (Wilson) Clarke ’43. For 12 years, she taught home economics, and he taught agriculture at Sisseton High School.
They then went to the University of Wyoming for advanced degrees. After Lester Clarke received his doctorate, he began a 33-year career at Northern State University. He retired in 1992 with emeritus status as professor, academic dean and vice president. He twice served as interim president.
The Clarkes traveled to more than 110 countries and went around the world four times. He had an interest in international education and world affairs. The Clarkes sponsored the first Chinese student to attend Northern State.
Clarke also was active in many civic groups, including serving as president of the St. Luke’s Hospital board.
He was preceded in death by his wife and three brothers. Survivors include 17 nieces and nephews.
