Dr. Richard Clark

March 28, 2024 - October 22, 2014


Dr. Richard Edwin Clark, of Cranberry Twp., formerly of Sewickley, devoted husband of Nancy Clark, father of Karen Kushner and Todd Clark, step father to Wendy Erler and Leigh Lynch and Poohbah to nine grandchildren, died peacefully October 22, 2014 at Sherwood Oaks. He was preceded in death by his sister, Jane Clark.

Dr. Clark graduated from St. Louis Country Day School in 1952 and Princeton University in 1956 with an honors degree in chemical engineering. He then graduated from Cornell Medical School in 1960.

An inventor all his life, he took particular pride in his work with the AB-180, a left-heart assist device designed to help failing hearts. At the request of Dr. George Magovern, Sr., he came to Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh where he established the Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Research Center (CVPRC) and began his work with Dr. McGovern and his sons, Drs. Jim Magovern and George Magovern, Jr. Before retiring, Dr. Clark served as a visiting professor at Oxford University in England where the AB-180 was successfully implanted into the chest of a young woman who is alive and well today.

Another significant contribution was his work with The Society of Thoracic Surgeon where he served as chairman and worked tirelessly to develop a national database which continues to expand and grow in importance. At the end of his career, the Society established The Richard E. Clark award given annually to recognize the uniquely outstanding scientific paper each year. Dr. Clark was also the Chief of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) which is now part of the National Institute of Health (NIH).

Retirement provided the opportunity for more fishing trips and room for many activities and tinkering in his shop including building and flying light model airplanes. His wife continues to believe he secretly wished he could fly. On Sunday, he always made time to watch his beloved Steelers. Most importantly, he found ample time to enjoy his nine grandchildren and to make yearly trips with Nancy to the English countryside. A memorial service will be held at Sherwood Oaks at a later date. In lieu of flowers may be made to the Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Arrangements by DEVLIN FUNERAL HOME of CRANBERRY.

Send Flowers    Shop Gifts    Print Obituary    Share Obituary

 

Assocations
Butler County Chamber of Commerce

Start typing and press Enter to search

 

Get the latest updates from Devlin Funeral Home:

mary schmittAgnes J. (Kermes) Nicholas