Robert C. “Rob” Clark, known affectionately to many as “Big Rob,” age 61, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly at home on Thursday evening, October 15, 2026.

Robert Charles Clark was born on March 31, 1965, in Bettendorf, Iowa, to Wilbur “Bob” and Charlene Ruby (Morris) Clark.  He grew up with strong family values and a practical, dependable nature that would guide him throughout his life. He was a 1984 graduate of Maquoketa High School, and after completing his education, he began building a life centered on responsibility, service, and love for those around him. On March 30, 1987, he married Robin Ann Laughlin in Monmouth, Iowa, and together they shared a marriage of nearly four decades. From this union came two daughters, Melissa and Sylvia, who were a source of great pride and joy to him.

Following high school, Rob began working with Earles Concrete and Construction in Maquoketa. He later worked for Banowetz Antiques in Maquoketa and eventually returned to construction, working on his own and for Cressey Construction and later Tom Yearwood Construction.  When his mother became ill, he set aside his hammer to care for her for nine years until her passing, a reflection of the deep love and loyalty he carried for his family. That season of caregiving led him to a new calling in the healthcare profession. In 2017, he received his CNA training certificate and began working for Hospice of Jackson County, where he continued to serve with compassion and kindness. He loved his coworkers and patients and found meaning in helping others during some of life’s most difficult moments.

Rob was a member of First Baptist Church in Maquoketa and lived his faith in quiet, steady ways through the care he showed others. He enjoyed music and was well known in the area for playing and singing for friends and family, as well as at nursing homes. His music brought comfort, joy, and connection to many, and his presence was often remembered for the warmth he shared so freely. He also enjoyed motorcycles and fishing, pastimes that gave him time to relax and appreciate the simple pleasures of life.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Robin Clark of Maquoketa, Iowa; his daughters, Melissa (Nicole) Clark of Dubuque, Iowa, and Sylvia (Justin Healey) Clark of Vail, Arizona; and one grandchild, Elliott Tillman of Tipton, Iowa. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of Rob’s life will be held at 1 P.M., Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. at the funeral home.  Cremation rites have been accorded.

Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.