James “Barry” Clark was born in Columbus, Wisconsin on August 23, 1942. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on March 25, 2026 at the age of 83.  

Barry was the second child of James and Emma Clark. He grew up in Waterloo, Wisconsin, and was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. He graduated from Waterloo High School in 1960, earned his degree in education from River Falls State College in 1964, and his master's degree from Northern Michigan University in 1967.

Barry began his career teaching sixth graders and coaching in Mount Horeb, Wisconsin. On August 20, 1966, in Grantsburg, Wisconsin, he married JoAnn Olson, his college sweetheart and loving wife of almost 60 years. They lived and taught in Madison before moving to Amery in 1968, soon settling in a close-knit neighborhood. He and JoAnn welcomed two wonderful daughters, and he was a devoted father to his girls. Barry taught middle school in Amery until 1980, then spent the next 25 years selling insurance in northwestern Wisconsin. Barry always enjoyed his students, and his clients as well.

He showed his commitment to his community in many ways, including helping to establish the local Jaycees chapter, serving as chapter president and later state vice president. As an active member of First Lutheran Church, he served multiple leadership roles, including on church council. He co-chaired the Amery Fall Festival in 1990 and was a leader in developing the local historical society. Barry also helped organize the Amery Men's Tennis Club and was a steadfast supporter of keeping courts viable and active for players of all ages.

Barry liked to surround himself with music and appreciated all kinds. He had a deep love of history and travel, taking his family on road trips across the country and Canada. He backpacked with JoAnn through the British Isles and Scandinavia. His grandson Asa was a constant source of delight and he loved playing with him. Fishing and golfing together were special times. Bonus grandson Sebastian brought yet another joy to his life. He loved watching both young men grow, attending their sports games, and celebrating their accomplishments. In retirement, he and JoAnn traveled to Florida in the winter where he logged many rounds of golf and developed great friendships.

Above all, Barry enjoyed living by the lake – boating, fishing, swimming, biking, playing tennis and pickleball with family and friends. Every excuse to gather as a family was the best of times!

Barry was preceded in death by his parents, James and Emma Clark, sisters Janet Jesberger and Jaquelyn, brother-in-law Ron Jesberger, and sister-in-law Margaret Olson. Left to love and remember Barry are his beloved wife, JoAnn, his daughters Kari (Mark Birchard) and Lisa (Brad Schulz), grandsons Asa and Sebastian, brother Jon (Patti Dougherty), and numerous cherished nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

In memory of Barry, be kind…pass it on.  

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at First Lutheran Church, Amery, Wisconsin. Visitation will be held from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow in the fellowship hall. 

Memorials may be made to First Lutheran Church, Amery, Wisconsin.

Last Update: Apr 08, 2026 9:09 am CDT