R. Clark Pattison

R. Clark Pattison, age 70, of New Concord, passed away on Sunday, November 1st, 2026 at Southeastern Medical Center, after what appeared to be a sudden heart related event. He was born to W. Roger and Nancy (Ross) Pattison on March 26th, 1956 in Cambridge, OH.
Clark is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Jill (Tedrick) Pattison; his mother, Nancy Pattison; children, Lucas (Treasure) Pattison and Leah (Will) Simpson; grandchildren, Lucas and Glenn Pattison, and Jesse, Levi, and Eliza Simpson; brother, Mark (Kathy) Pattison; nephews, Ross (Tiffany) Pattison and Adam (Abbey) Pattison. He also leaves behind many special friends, including his extended Texas family.
Clark is preceded in death by his half-brother, Calvin (Susan) Crossland from Texas, as well as his father, Roger Pattison—who passed just 10 hours earlier, on Oct 31st, 2026.
Clark graduated from John Glenn High School in 1974 and spent several years working small jobs in a handful of states. He eventually settled back in Ohio and married his wife Jill in 1981. Around that same time he started his 21 year employment with TW Metals of Cambridge, until they shut their doors. In 2003 he transitioned to bus driving at Cambridge City Schools and continued until 2012. In 1981, Clark (along with his brother Mark) initially started a small business which was known as Pattison Drain Cleaning. Clark eventually established the business as his own, cleaning drains in the afternoon or evenings, in addition to the full time job(s) he already worked. Throughout the years the Pattison truck/van could be spotted by day or even in the middle of the night, servicing homes and businesses in the Cambridge, Caldwell, New Concord and Zanesville areas. For the last 14 years, he cleaned drains exclusively, usually making new friends along the way. Not everyone knew the “Drain Man” by name, but he would often be remembered or recognized as the “Bearded Whistler” or the “Man with the Hat.” He had an adventurous spirit—despite not always seeming obvious—and took pleasure in taking the time to do things the long or hard way. He found enjoyment in the simple things, like cutting firewood, shelling walnuts, and even kayaking his way through Will’s Creek one “unexplored” section at a time.
Clark was passionate about God and about what is true. He spent much time reading his Bible and researching topics that covered many diverse areas. He was never shy to discuss and share his little insights and bits of wisdom or truths to anyone who had a willingness to learn or listen. He was a fan of his morning routine and quiet time, making sure it was always set aside. From freshly milling and cooking his soaked oats, to spending time reading scriptures, Clark was sure to prioritize this space, even if it meant getting up an extra hour early before starting his day at the bus garage. Clark was a quiet and gentle man. He loved his family dearly, which he often demonstrated through silent acts of service. If a loved one needed help, there was never a hesitation to go out of his way to assist. He had a special place in his heart for each of his children and grandchildren. He found joy in watching them grow and learn, as well as sharing meals together on Sundays after church.
The hole Clark leaves behind cannot be filled. However, the joy that comes from knowing he is with his Lord and Savior for eternity brings peace to the hearts of those who have that same assurance. We look forward to that day when we can be reunited. Until then, we find satisfaction in knowing that heaven surely gained one marvelous whistler in the choir.
Family will greet friends from 4pm-7pm on Wednesday, November 4th, 2026 at the Bloomfield United Presbyterian Church (located at 5650 Cambridge Rd., New Concord, OH 43762.) A funeral service will also be held the next day on Thursday, November 5th, 2026. There will be a one hour visitation period beginning at 10am with a funeral service to follow at 11am. There will be a brief luncheon immediately after the service, and then a processional which will leave the church at 1:00pm. Clark will be laid to rest at Glenview Cemetery near Winterset, Ohio. Funeral and graveside services will be officiated by Pastor Tim Pollock. For those unable to attend, video footage can be live streamed via the Bloomfield United Presbyterian Church Facebook or YouTube page.
In lieu of flowers, gifts in Clark’s memory can be made to the Bloomfield United Presbyterian Church and mailed to: 1800 Bloomfield Rd. New Concord, OH 43762.
Arrangements care of Farus Funeral Home, New Concord.
