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Sudden death leaves lesson
Larry McKay had a great conversation with his good friend John Clark. In that wide-ranging talk, Clark said he thanked God for his family, his friends, and his new job at bedding producer Southerland. He was in a great mood, McKay recalled.
And the next day John Clark, 57, a devoted family man, a friend to many, and an experienced mattress salesman, died of an apparent heart attack.
Larry McKay, a sales representative with Protect-A-Bed, was stunned to get the news. But he was also thankful that he and John had had such a good conversation, one that Larry will always remember.
"He was so happy," McKay recalled of that final talk with Clark. "Life couldn't have been better for him. He loved his job at Southerland. Everything was going so well for him."
But life sometimes takes cruel turns.
"Tomorrow is not guaranteed to anyone," McKay said, reflecting on Clark's sudden death. "You have to live for the day."
And that is the lesson I will leave with you as the final days of the year tick away. Enjoy those special moments with your friends, family and colleagues over the holidays and remember that life is a precious gift that comes with no guarantees.
Bob Hellyer commented:
Always enjoyed time spent with John over the years. A true professional and friend loved by all. Rest in peace!
Kris Thomsen commented:
We at Boyd Specialty Sleep also appreciated John and were graced by his caring, his energy, and intelligent presence and contributions. We are glad to have had the opportunity to know and work with him. Rest in Peace John!
Pat Conklin commented:
I was his MIL...his name for me...his mother in law. I loved him dearly. He was married to my daughter Debbi for 32 years and he and I never had so much as a cross word. He loved me....so much for all the mother in law jokes. I miss him terribly and always will.
John Rachid commented:
Dave,
Thank you for not letting John’s sudden passing go unmentioned. He was one of the good guys in our industry. A man with integrity and class…he will be missed.
Geralyn commented:
A perfect reply! Thanks for taking the torulbe.
Gerry Borreggine commented:
David, Thank you for a great tribute to a great guy. To John's family, may it be a great comfort to know that John was so respected and highly regarded by his peers. Peace and love to the Clark family during this sad time.
Roberta Woodard commented:
John Clark was the true definition of "Friend".If you were his friend, you always knew it. Although my husband and I only knew John for about six years, we felt like it was 30. He was filled with integrity and love for his family and friends. I still can't believe he is gone. Rest in Peace John Clark..We will all miss you.
Tom Fritz commented:
My dear friend John was truly a man honor,compassion, and integrity. His friendship not only blessed me but my entire family. I can't imagin life without him here. You will be missed by many. Rest in Peace my dear friend.
Darren commented:
John was a class act. A true go-getter if I'd have ever known one. Never afraid to break a sweat....quick with words and sharp as a tack. He did lose the remote all the time and blame it on me but regardless, I had a great childhood growing up. He was my little league coach, boy scout leader and a mentor to many. Rest in Peace, Dad. We miss you lots.
Don Wright commented:
Always hard to lose someone this time of year. Nice Work Dave, the sentiments are perfect, and absolutely appropriate for the situation. Thanks for the reminder to each of us to find our joy and hold onto it every day.
Michael Nermon commented:
Thank you for sharing this story Dave. While we are deeply saddened at learning this news, we are also inspired by your reminding us about the genuine, special people we have in our industry.
Alan Eisenberg commented:
John was a mensch. A gentleman. I knew John for over 25 years. He was a friend, mentor, and just a great person. I will miss him and he will always be in my thoughts. Rest in peace, Jethro (my nickname for him.)
Kevin Toman commented:
I knew John at Sealy when I was head of national accounts. John was a great guy, full of life and respected by all his peers as well as customers.
Pete Primeau commented:
John was special. He was my boss and my friend for the past several months. He was a positive powerhouse of energy and integrity. He was smart as well as caring. I know John will Rest In Peace! All of us at Southerland will miss him and we will never forget him!






















