Margaret Clark remembered for pride in Batavia

Margaret J. Clark of Batavia was known for her love of Batavia. And bridge. And Bethany Lutheran Church. And, lately, golf.

Clark, 86, died Thursday at Provena Mercy Medical Center in Aurora, after suffering a heart attack while golfing.

“My Mom was loyal to Batavia for her whole life,” said her son, John W. Clark. “Mom was very supportive of all Batavia activities and was proud to see it expand into what it is today.”

She graduated from Batavia High School in 1943, then attended Knox College, studying art.

At Bethany, Clark sang in the choir, taught Thursday and Sunday schools, supervised the Luther League, helped with Junior Mission, and enjoyed many fellowship activities.

She also volunteered for the Batavia Historical Society. Clark was the first paid employee of the Batavia Park District, working there for about 15 years as business manager.

John Clark said his mother was also proud that small businesses supported the annual Batavia fireworks show, and she never missed a show. He said she always had a cheerful attitude, and that her laughter was contagious.

“Everyone loved to get her giggling,” he said.

She married Donald Clark in 1948; he died in 2001. Clark owned Avenue Chevrolet, which was on Batavia Avenue, then moved to Randall Road. Son John closed the doors on the business earlier in 2011, after Chevrolet withdrew its franchise.

Clark is survived by her son; four daughters; 10 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

A wake will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Moss Family Funeral Home, 209 S. Batavia Ave. Her funeral is at 10:30 a.m. Monday at Bethany Lutheran Church, 8 S. Lincoln St.