JP CLARK(1935 – 2020): TRIBUTES TO A QUINTESSENTIAL ANCIENT MARINER

The passing of Professor John Pepper Clark-Bekederemo on October 13, 2020, struck a tear nerve in many an old boy. JP Clark, a quintessential Ancient Mariner whose true value to the GCUOBA Worldwide family is unquantifiable, was regular at old boys’ events. The tributes came in torrents for a man who was a fixture for many students of Literature for many decades, and will be, even going forward. Though by his iconoclastic will he sought and received a quiet and timely interment and thus robbed GCUOBA of a proper send-forth in the tradition set for distinguished Mariners, with a valedictory ceremony at GCU, Old Boys could not but celebrate his life and times at different fora across the country.

Capturing the man and his essence, President General Worldwide, Arc Charles O Majoroh, in a condolence message and tribute, said JP Clark was the embodiment of the GCU Spirit of high achievement and camaraderie. He added that the revered Ancient Mariner was a colossus and an asset to GCUOBA Worldwide and will be sorely missed. Tributes came in from old boys, political leaders and his literary community.