CLARKE, Patricia A. (Pat)

The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona, Saturday, January 05, 2013 Patricia A. Clarke (Sorensen), 88, devoted wife and mother, passed away in Prescott, Ariz., Jan. 1, 2013. Patricia was born in Alexandria, Ind., on May 22, 1924, to Edith and Miller Anderson. Patricia (Pat) grew up in a family of seven children, giving her the desire for many children. Upon finding out childbearing was not possible, she and her husband Harold Sorensen adopted Cynthia in 1947 and then adopted Wendy in 1957. Pat was a wonderful wife and mother, making sure that their girls had every opportunity available. She made sure they were introduced to dance, music, art and giving back to the community. She took her Campfire Girls in Phoenix, Ariz., from Bluebirds to the top rank of Torchbearers. Pat was very creative and talented herself and passed this on to the many girls in her troop, keeping the group together for several years. Even now, there are close friends - friendships that were created more than 50 years ago. Pat was such a role model for many in her life. She worked several years as a volunteer at St. Joseph's Hospital in Phoenix. Then she became activity director at The Beatitudes Retirement Home in Phoenix. She spent many more years volunteering there and bring a multitude of smiles, love and laughter to all the residents. Every year she and her family adopted a family that was sure not to have a special Christmas. She became "Santa" to each and everyone in that family and created a joyous and memorable holiday for all. She will be loved and missed by all who knew her. Patricia married her high school sweetheart Samuel Hezlep and, upon his death, she married Commander Robert Clarke, living in Atlanta and then moving to Prescott to be closer to family. Robert passed away Jan. 4, 2012. Graveside services will be conducted at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013, at the Prescott National Cemetery Columbarium, in Prescott. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for gifts to your favorite charity. Arrangements were entrusted to the Hampton Funeral Home, Prescott. Information provided by survivors.