Clark Franklin Cornelison (82) passed away Wednesday, May 27, 2026 while in the care of Missouri Baptist Hospital.
Born June 12, 1943 in Bethany, MO, he was the son of the late Bert R. and Hazel (nee) Rinehart Cornelison.
Clark graduated from Poplar Bluff Senior High School in 1962. After graduation Clark joined the U S Navy and was a member of the Blue Angels, stationed in Pensacola, FL. He joined Chrysler Corporation and during his tenure held several positions until his retirement.
Clark was an avid golfer, playing 6 days a week. He enjoyed a good party and fellowship of friends and family. He was an active member of the Affton Elks Lodge #2635.
He is survived by his wife, Donna Yantis Cornelison, daughters Melissa (Dave) Brydels and Kari (Jeff) Gutjahr, grandchildren Ben (Liz) Brydels, Emma (Nick) Winston and Chloe, Madeline and Dylan Gutjahr, and great grandchildren Nora, Callahan and Anderson. Also surviving is his brother, Jim (Olivia) Cornelison, as well as with the children’s mother, Genelda.
A private interment will be held on June 29, 2026 at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.
On Saturday July 18, 2026 a Celebration of Life will be held from 2:00 until 4:00 at the Affton Elks Lodge # 2635, 6330 Heege Road, St. Louis, MO.
Suggested memorial contributions to Affton Elks # 3625, Forces for Food (aka JB Patriot Food Pantry) or your local Humane Society.
My sincere condolences to the family of this wonderful man. He will be missed by all who knew him. May God be with you all and comfort you at this time. With much love to Donna and the family.
Donna I’m so saddened to hear this. I’m fortunate to have gotten to meet him while working at Acorns. Prayers for you and your family. He will be missed but forever dear in our hearts .
I really respected this Man , He was so humble, funny, genuine person! May God hold him in the palm of his hands until we meet again!My heart goes out to Donna and his whole family.
I am so proud to have known Clark for the past 19 years! As the proud Veteran he was, he involved himself with the JB Patriot Pantry serving his fellow Veterans and Active Military.
Always smiling, sharing some of his military experiences. A wonderful personality! He will be missed abundantly by myself and the pantry.
Peace be with you, Clark🇺🇸
Donna and Family I am so sorry for your loss 😔 . Clark was a very Bright Star! I am grateful I got to know him. He will be missed but always in our heart.🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼😇😇