WHEREAS, George W. Clarke represented the people of the 41st Legislative District in the State House of Representatives from 1966-1971, and in the Washington State Senate from 1971-1984; and
     WHEREAS, He served as Republican Majority Floor Leader and on the Senate Judiciary Committee; and
     WHEREAS, Senator Clarke was a proud resident of Mercer Island for ninety-eight years, attending Mercer Island's schools, including the two room Mercer Island Schoolhouse, and later serving on the Mercer Island school board for more than twenty years to improve and promote local education; and
     WHEREAS, Senator Clarke worked as a dedicated attorney for his family's law firm, Clarke, Bovingdon, and Cole, going to work every day until his ninety-ninth birthday; and
     WHEREAS, Senator Clarke always served with the utmost dignity and respect for others; and
     WHEREAS, He was always a distinguished gentleman and statesman who set an example for others by standing and buttoning his jacket upon speaking; and
     WHEREAS, Senator Clarke enjoyed life in the Northwest to the fullest through his lifelong love of boating and being on the water; and
     WHEREAS, He served in the United States Navy in World War II; and
     WHEREAS, Senator Clarke was a respected, knowledgeable community leader and local historian who worked to improve life for everyone across Washington state, including his quest to keep fire suppressant material in the I-90 tunnels; and
     WHEREAS, He was a father of three, grandfather of nine, great grandfather of twenty-two, and great-great grandfather of three;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That George W. Clarke be acknowledged and acclaimed for his dedication and unwavering commitment to Washington state and his community, always serving with grace and dignity; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to the family of George W. Clarke.