Gloria Ann Clark, musician, artist, educator, wife and mother passed away on July 30,2022. She was born February 7, 1937 to Franklin T and Jean A (Lawrence) Gamage in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Gloria was known as a performing musician and artist throughout the United States and had numerous accomplishments to her credit. Her work in Montana as a musician included being a volunteer cellist with the Butte Symphony from 1991-2001 which she took great pride in being a part of. She also served on the Community Concerts Board of Directors and loved helping to promote the arts in Butte.
As a pianist, Gloria performed regularly at Grant Kohrs, Bannack Days, Philipsburg and with the Spirit of Butte Swing Band. She was also locally known for her solo acts and jazz duo and trio groups.
As an educator, Gloria spent 19 years at Butte Elementary teaching music and again as many years as a private music teacher with as many as 23 students at a time. She truly loved being able to teach and share music with young people. Gloria also played at many churches in the Butte area on both organ and piano.
Gloria also enjoyed success as a painter using different mediums and a high point for her was when some pieces were taken to Europe for private display. Gloria was also a contributing mural artist to the Butte community and was a recipient of the Butte City Artist award.
Gloria is survived by her devoted husband of 41 years William, daughter Allison Szabo (Sandor), son John Clark (Bobbie), daughter Debbie Queen (Jerry), grandson Matt Clark, sister Carole Hallal, brother-in-law Robert Clark (‘Peggy) nephews Marc Shiro (Barbara), Marti Shiro (Barbara) their children, Lewis Shiro (Andrew), niece Marci Boswell (Wayne) their children and nephew Kurt Suppiger (Anita) and their children.
A Celebration of Life will be announced and held at a later date.
Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Gloria.
Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Gloria and her family.
Millie Rigby says
Always enjoyed seeing Gloria and Bill every morning for breakfast at the Gold Rush. I’ve often thought about her after the Rush closed. She was such a super sweet lady and always full of smiles. My prayers go out to Bill and all of Gloria’s family.
Patti Chain says
Gloria was a great inspiration to me when she played for our Church. She could okay anything and most of the time from memory. Rest In Peace Gloria and continue on with your music
Barbara rosenthal erickson says
I took private art lessons from gloria. She was a very important part of my life. I am forever grateful for her excellent guidance . I paint everyday and think of her . We had great lessons but our sessions included lots of visiting and laughing sharing stories. My condolences to Bill and family. Rest In Peace dear Gloria
Bill Wheeler says
Bill, I have very fond memories of seeing both you and Gloria every day at the Gold Rush. I appreciated Gloria’s genuine warmth and have missed that over the last 15 years. Please know that you have friends near and far mourn with you the passing of this special lady. ~Bill Wheeler
Helen Patterson says
Miss Gloria worked with me at the Forest Service for a short time. But in that small amount of time, her humor and kindness was apparent and appreciated.
Rest in Peace, Gloria, PLAY ON!
Carol Tash says
Butte lost one very talented and unique lady. I’ll always remember the days spent with Gloria at Butte Central with fondness! Condolences to Bill and family!
Dan, Claudia and Ben Rapkoch says
Our son, Be, always enjoyed his visits with Gloria for piano lessons. Her patience and firm teaching has been so important for our son in the years after. Thanks to Bill and family for sharing Gloria with us. God Bless you, Gloria, and as said before, Play on!
Ann Gilmore says
Gloria always made me feel good, I loved her creative side, her Christmas cards, music and outlook on life. Bill my deepest sympathy to you and the family. Gloria will be missed.
Gerry Walter says
I have such wonderful memories of me and Gloria laughing together when we were working with Mark Reavis. “Two over 60- year – olds” telling how things could of and should of been done. I still have the Christmas goblet you gave me and wow does it bring back some grand times!! Ann Gilmore is right Gloria did always make me feel Good! You are missed and you’ll never know how many lives you touched!