Damon Buchannon Clark was born in Atlantic, Iowa on July 31, 1983, to Harry and Debbie (Kelso) Clark. He entered into rest on October 4, 2021, peacefully at his home at the age of 38.
Damon attended school in Atlantic and upon graduation entered the United States Marines Corp. in 2001. Damon fathered a beautiful daughter, Tyzha Lillian prior to leaving; making being away extremely difficult since he was very family oriented. After his time in the service, he returned to Iowa to raise his daughter and be close to his family.
He later attended Kaplan University receiving his Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice. Damon moved to Des Moines with his daughter where he worked for several years providing Behavioral Health Intervention Services for youth and expanding his education. Damon was very passionate about making a difference in people’s lives.
In 2013, Damon returned to Atlantic and started working with Zion Recovery Services Inc. placing his focus on prevention of substance abuse disorders and improving mental health throughout southwest Iowa. Damon worked tirelessly in the community; his passion for the cause of mental health and ability to unite people from many different backgrounds towards a common cause is exemplified by his founding of the Cass County CLEAN (Community Leadership Efforts Acting Now) Coalition in 2017. Damon served as the coalition coordinator and leader and truly was the spirit of CLEAN because he was welcoming, passionate and motivated.
Damon’s dedication united community leaders and stakeholders from all over Cass County to improve the lives of its citizens and those in surrounding communities, including law enforcement, medical professionals, business owners, community service organizations, state and local governments, churches, civic organizations, teachers, and parents. Damon and the coalition provided education and awareness which included hosting events and supporting other community efforts. He was always stood out at local meetings because his ability to speak and passion for his cause touched the hearts of so many.
Damon could light up a room with his larger-than-life charisma and sparkling smile. Damon was most at home speaking with groups of students. He was a beloved educator and his passion moved students, teachers, and school administrators to join efforts to improve community mental health and awareness. His prevention work with schools throughout southwest Iowa made a large impact and will always be remembered.
Damon’s children were his life, he was so proud of them all. Damon’s free time was spent with his children, family, love, Erica, and friends.
Damon B. Clark will be forever imprinted on our hearts and will be deeply missed by his children, Tyzha L Clark of Ames, Julien Tribolet of Atlantic and Avadah Clark of Atlantic; love of his life, Erica Bengel; his parents, Deb Kelso of Atlantic and Harry Clark of St. Charles; sister, Jenny May Clark of Atlantic; brothers, Tyler Clark of and John Waltz, both of Atlantic; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.
Damon was preceded in death by his grandma, Jenny Groth, great-grandma, Mae Rose, and grandpa, Howard Buchannon Clark.
Visitation with the family present will he held from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Friday, October 15th and from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., Saturday, October 16th at Roland Funeral Home in Atlantic. During the visitation there will be place to leave a favorite memory of Damon or you can bring one already prepared. Memories can also be shared on the funeral home website.
A private family funeral service will be held following the visitations.
Roland Funeral Service is caring for Damon’s family and his arrangements.
