James M. (Mike) Clark, 51, of Walton, Ind., and formerly of Syracuse, Ind., went to be with his Heavenly Father in the early morning hours of Sunday, Sept. 30, 2012.

He was born July 25, 1961, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Danny M. and Wanda Joyce (Carew) Clark. Mike married his high school sweetheart, Traca L. (Roback) on Dec. 28, 1985. She survives.

Mike was employed by the Southeastern School Corporation as the Lewis Cass High School Director of Bands. He was band director at Wawasee High School from 1993-2002.

Mike was a member of Upper Deer Creek Church where he served as Deacon, taught Sunday school, and was a member of the Praise and Worship Team. Mike was an active member of Phi Beta Mu Professional Band Master’s Fraternity and was recently selected as 2013 Indiana Band Master of the Year. Mike was also an avid hunter and fisherman.

Mike is survived by his wife: Traca (Roback) Clark; two daughters: Catherin F. Clark, and Sarah Jessica (Kitt) O’Brien; his parents: Danny M. and Joyce (Carew) Clark; a sister: Joyce Ann (Chris) Adkins; three brothers: Mark E. (Patty) Clark, Patrick W. (Martha) Clark, and W. Miles (Michelle) Clark; and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by grandparents: Henry and Lillian Carew, and Dan P. and Leila Clark.

Visitation will be from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 7, in the auditorium of Lewis High School, 6422 E. SR 218, Walton. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 5 p.m. with Pastor Joe Coffin officiating. A private committal service and burial will be held in Walton Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be to the Mike Clark Scholarship fund at Salin Bank & Trust, 100 South Main Street, Walton, IN 46994.

Murray-Weaver Funeral Homes, Walton, is handling the arrangements.