Gary Ray Clarkson

Gary Ray Clarkson, 82, of Assaria, Kan., passed away Saturday, September 6, 2025. He was born on May 18, 1943, and raised in Larned, Kan., to parents, George Raymond and Blanche (Walton) Clarkson.

Gary was united in marriage to Judith “Judy” Litchfield on July 29, 1967. They resided in Kansas and Colorado, where Gary worked for Raytheon and Beech Aircraft for over 35 years.

Gary was a jack-of-all-trades who could fix anything. He had a love of dogs and old cars and enjoyed riding his Harley. Gary was an avid hunting and fishing outdoorsman. He was a Hunter Safety Instructor for 35 years and was inducted into the Kansas Hunter Education Hall of Fame in 2012, alongside his son, Shannon. He was a proud 20-plus year cancer survivor.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings, Bruce Clarkson, Peggy Brannan, and Nancy Chapman.

Survivors include his wife of over 58 years, Judy; twin sons, Shannon (Terri) and Matthew (Christy); grandchildren, Hunter and Blake Clarkson, and Makayla Farmer, Jaidan Hickman, Erykah Corley, Grace Hardin, Alix Engle, Hannah Clarkson, Ryin Engle, and Trey Clarkson; seven great-grandchildren; siblings, Linda Mollnow (Dan) and Mike Clarkson (Renia); and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 28, 2026 at Church of Christ, 1646 N. 9th St., Salina.  

Memorials may be made to Ryan Mortuary, 137 N 8th St, Salina, KS, 67401, to assist with funeral expenses.

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