Preston Clark

Preston Wayne Clark, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2025, leaving behind a family forever shaped by his strength, love, and steady presence. He was 85, having lived a long and full life surrounded by those he loved.

Born on January 25, 1940, in Holdenville, Oklahoma, to Elmer and Selma Clark, Preston learned the value of hard work early. By his junior year of high school, he was working in the oil fields. After graduating from Wewoka High School, he held several jobs, including work as a computer programmer, before eventually starting his own boat cover business, Okieland, where his steady hands and sharp mind turned hard work into craftsmanship. On July 10, 1959, Preston married the love of his life, Shirley Ann Cook. For the next 66 years, their marriage was defined by devotion, resilience, and shared adventures. Together they raised two daughters, Teri and Lori, whose lives were shaped by their father's calm strength and deep devotion. Preston was steadfast, kind, and hardworking. He was a safe and comforting space. Everything simply felt better when you were around him. His love was unconditional, his guidance came without pressure, and he had a way of letting his daughters and grandchildren find their own path while always offering quiet support. Somehow, he was always right. He could fix anything, often by simply figuring it out himself (long before YouTube), and solved problems before anyone else even realized there was one.

Family was the heartbeat of Preston's life. He and Shirley spent countless weekends camping at Lake Tenkiller and Lake Eufaula, where Preston became the patient teacher of first-time skiers. They took many trips to Las Vegas, spent decades attending OU/Texas games (once squeezing six people into one hotel room), skied the slopes of Colorado, and traveled as far as Alaska and Hawaii. But no matter where they went, Preston's truest joy was simple: being surrounded by the people he loved, his face beaming with quiet pride. He cherished life's simple rituals: Sharing ice cream with his grandchildren, a sweet tradition that cemented bonds across generations. Tending a yard that looked like a golf course. Enjoying time at the lake, and always insisting on paying for meals. His firm handshake, even near the end, and his kisses, were gentle reminders of the love and strength he carried through every season of life. He had a few sayings that stuck, like "this, that, or the other," the affectionate "hey gal," and "love you a lot." Phrases that now echo with love and memory. He was endlessly proud of his daughters and grandchildren.

Preston is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley; daughters Teri Matzdorf (Eric) and Lori Stovall (John); grandchildren Kyra and Kala Matzdorf, Betty Bohuslavicky (Beau), and Cole Hargus; great-grandchildren Blakely Ann and Oliver Preston Bohuslavicky; and sister Linda Green, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters Nadine Mulkey, Louetta Parks, and Laverne Russell.

A private service will be held at the family's home on Lake Keystone, a place filled with memories of a life well-lived and love that will linger for generations. Memorial contributions may be made to Clarehouse Hospice in Tulsa.

Preston's life was not defined by a list of accomplishments, but by the powerful impact of his presence and the quiet force of his love. He was the anchor, the compass, and the gentle hand that guided his family. His strong grip, his warm smile, and even the smell of him will be missed. He leaves behind a legacy that will echo in every laugh, every lesson, and every memory made around the lake, across the miles, and forever in the hearts of his family.

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." - Psalm 34:18

Memorial services for Preston will be held on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Clark Residence, in Cleveland, Oklahoma. Chapman-Black Funeral Home will be in charge of arrangements. Friends and family may visit an online guest book at www.chapman-black.com