Residents of the Town of Normal are grieving the death of former Police Chief Walter D. "Walt" Clark, Sr., who died Oct. 15 at the age of 82.
Clark spent 33 years with the Normal Police Department, starting as a patrol officer in 1971 and retiring as chief of police in 2004. Clark's law enforcement service was a defining feature of his life. It led him to the University of Illinois at Springfield for a degree, the University of Virginia for graduate school and the FBI National Academy.
Clark was born in LaGrange, Ill. and served in the United States Navy prior to his work in law enforcement. Since retiring, he served as director of the Law and Justice Commission, Mobile Team Unit 8 and held additional community leadership roles.
Clark married his wife Jan in 1999 and is survived by several children and grandchildren.
In a statement to WGLT, the Town of Normal expressed sadness about Clark's death and appreciation for his service.
"He dedicated his career to protecting and serving our community. As police chief, he was an outstanding officer, a respected leader and a trusted colleague. His dedication to our community extended far beyond his professional responsibilities. His legacy is one of leadership, especially with the current leadership team at Normal Police Department.
"Normal Police Chief Steve Petrilli and both assistant police chiefs began their law enforcement careers under Clark. We also remember Chief Clark’s deep compassion and genuine commitment to our community. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and all those who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him."
A visitation will be 2-4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 22 at the Kibler-Brady-Ruestman Memorial Home in Bloomington, with the funeral immediately afterward.
