Tolva Clark, age 80, of Ashland, Ohio, passed away on January 18, 2025, at UH Samaritan Hospital in Ashland, following a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.
Tolva was born on September 18, 1945, in Floyd County, Kentucky, to Charlie and Clara G. (Lykens) Clark. He was a proud Vietnam Veteran, serving his country on active duty with honor and dedication.
Tolva was preceded in death by the love of his life, his beloved wife, Diana “Susie” (Wendling) Clark, whom he cherished deeply. Also preceded by his sister Emma Peppard and brother Milford Clark.
He is survived by his two children, Michael (Christina) Clark and Shari (Jerry Griffin) Clark; five grandchildren, Kristin Horst, Ashley (TJ) Houston, Brandon (Abigail Craig) Clark, Corbin (Kenzie Gallion), and Kelsi Clark; and five great-grandchildren, Cameron Horst, Maxwell and Toby Houston, and Karsen and Taytum Clark; all of whom were the center of his world. Tolva’s loyalty to his family was unmatched. He was a steady presence, a protector, and a constant source of support. If you were his, you knew it—fully, fiercely, and forever. Family was not just important to him; it was his purpose.
He is also survived by his siblings: Sisters; Sue Lilly and Jewell Arms, Pauline Goins and Linda Pauley. Brothers; Hillard Clark, Larry Clark and Charles Clark.
Tolva poured his heart and soul into his career as a diesel mechanic at Abers Truck Center, where he was known for his skill, reliability, and pride in a job done right. He lived by—and taught—core values of honesty, hard work, loyalty, and family, leading more by example than words.
In his free time, Tolva enjoyed golfing, playing cards, and music. He loved to sing and dance and had a personality and smile that could truly light up any room. His warmth, humor, and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. His presence was strong, comforting, and genuine.
With hands shaped by years of hard work and a larger-than-life soul that was even kinder than it was strong, Tolva leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, and quiet strength. His memories will be forever treasured, and he will be deeply and lovingly missed.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. in the Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home with Reverend Harry Strachan presiding. Military honors will be conducted by the Ashland Veterans Honor Guard. Following the services a meal and time of fellowship will be held in the Legacy Room at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Nankin Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N Michigan Ave. Floor 17 Chicago, IL 60601.
For those who may not be able to attend, online condolences may be shared on the funeral home’s website at denbowfh.com.
Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Funeral Home: Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home & Crematory
Website: denbowfh.com