Francis "Fran" Clark Sr.

May 26, 1950 – May 30, 2025

Francis Clark Sr., affectionately known as "Fran," went home to be with his LORD and Savior on Friday, May 30, 2025, at the age of 75. A resident of Prattville, Alabama, Fran leaves behind a legacy of innovation, adventure, and deep devotion to his family.

Born on May 26, 1950, in Orchard Park, New York, Fran was the son of the late William J. Clark and Jessie M. (Romanowski) Clark. Fran loved hunting and fishing with his brothers. A gifted student, he earned admission to Yale University, where he studied metallurgical engineering.

After graduating from Yale, Fran married, started a family, and settled in Montgomery, Alabama. He began his professional career with Thermal Components, where he dedicated over 20 years. His work took him around the globe, designing and building factories that produced cutting-edge heat exchange equipment. Rising to the position of Executive Vice President, Fran became a respected innovator and leader in his field. His impact on the industry was significant, and even after leaving Thermal Components, he went on to found two more companies based on his expertise.

Fran's passions extended far beyond engineering. He was a talented bass guitarist, loved car racing, fishing and hunting. An avid outdoorsman, Fran so enjoyed preparing the land and hunting with his close friends at The Annex Hunting Club.

Among Fran's greatest joys was being a devoted father and grandfather. He never missed a baseball game played by his grandson, Chance, who he loved more than the world and so enjoyed their bowling outings. He was so proud of his son Frannie and frequently spoke of his accomplishments.

Fran attended Centerpoint Fellowship Church in Prattville, Alabama.

Fran was preceded in death by his brother, Nelson Clark. He is survived by his children, Francis "Frannie" Clark Jr. and Jason "JW" William Clark; grandson, Chance William Clark; siblings, William (Margaret) Clark, Thomas (Norma) Clark Sr., Lawrence (Lori) Clark, Joseph (Jean) Clark, Mary (Barry) Pfohl, and Margaret (James) Salgot; sister-in-law, Bonnie Clark; former wife and friend, Pauhla Clark; nephew, Thomas (Lisa) Clark Jr. and numerous other nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Cain's Chapel, 96 Lightwood Drive, Deatsville, AL 36022. Following the service, friends and family are invited to join us at Fran's favorite Mexican restaurant , El Cerrito Mexican Grill in Prattville, for a meal in his honor.