In Memory of Chris Clark



Chris Clark
Chris Clark
Born: April 12, 1966
Died: January 29, 2024
Age: 57
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Chris Clark
April 12, 1966 - January 29, 2024
From: Ida Grove, IA

Chris Clark, age 57, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, January 29, 2024, at the Horn Memorial Hospital of Ida Grove, Iowa.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at the Skate Palace of Ida Grove, Iowa. Pastor Tyler Parson will officiate. A Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., on Monday, February 5, 2024, at the Arthur Evangelical Free Church of Arthur, Iowa.

Graveside Services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 7, 2024, in the Williams Township Cemetery of rural Williams, Iowa.

The Christensen-Van Houten Funeral Home of Ida Grove, Iowa, is in charge of the funeral arrangements.  Condolences may be sent online at www.christensenvanhouten.com

Memorials may be directed to the family to be donated in honor of Chris’ name to a cause dear to him.

Chris Clark, age 57, unexpectedly went home to be with the Lord on Monday, January 29, 2024, at Horn Memorial Hospital in Ida Grove, Iowa. 

On April 12, 1966, Christopher “Chris” K. Clark was welcomed into the world in Cherokee, Iowa. He was the fifth child (out of eight) of Keith and Norma (Rupp) Clark. Like many folks in the Midwest, Chris grew up on a farm. His family farmed north of Quimby, Iowa, and those growing-up years provided him with a broad base of experiential knowledge about crops and ignited his later career interests in agriculture. He graduated from Willow Community Schools in 1984, and graduated from Iowa State with a degree in Ag Studies: Farm Operations in 1989. 

In 1998, Chris met the love of his life, Marjorie Williams, on a blind date in Storm Lake, Iowa. After a wonderful courtship, they were married on April 7, 2000. Chris and Marj have been a great team as they raised their two children, Truman (21) and Ruthie (19), and served together, side-by-side, in business, church ministry, and community projects.

You may have encountered Chris in any of his roles related to agriculture. He was a crop and seed advisor, agronomist, plot manager for corn research, independent crop consultant, online auction sales rep, and he was recently employed with Midwest Land Management and Real Estate. Perhaps you met him at Hidden Acres Christian Center as the Advancement Director and a Board Member. Maybe you knew him through his ministry at CrossRidge Evangelical Free Church as an Elder and Member. You might have just rubbed shoulders with him at  other local activities or when he was attending and supporting his children’s many ambitions.

 It didn’t matter who you were or how you met him, you wouldn’t be a stranger to Chris Clark for long.  Offering a warm smile, a handshake, a little wave, or a shared prayer, Chris was always willing to go the extra mile to develop soul-level relationships. His saying –  “getting under the hood” – referred to knowing people deeper than the surface. He consistently got down on a knee to talk to kids, making them feel seen and valuable. Chris additionally loved to make people laugh; his dad jokes and wisecracks (ones which edified, never berated) were always sure to bring a smile. His belly laughs and big hugs could be felt long after leaving a conversation. 

Chris was also a man that knew God. He didn’t merely know about God, but he knew Him as someone knows a close friend. The truest delight in his heart was to serve and love others, as he knew God had first loved him. He loved to share his faith boldly and tell others about the imperishable, living hope that he had in Christ Jesus. Chris was not a perfect person, but he knew that Jesus had taken the wrath of God so that he would never have to. He knew God's grace had led him safe thus far, and he knew God’s grace would lead him home.

Now, Chris is enjoying that eternal home in heaven. Left to cherish his memory and carry on his legacy are his wife, Marjorie Clark; children Truman and Ruth; mother Norma Jean (Rupp) Clark; siblings: Barbara (Dean) Johnson, Joe Clark (Tim Fisher), Julie (Mike) Luken, Beth Clark, Jennifer (Rich) Zaber, and Wendy Clark; and sister-in-law Barbie Clark. Additionally, he is survived by his parents-in-law Donald and Joan Williams; sister-in-law Marsha (Joel) Jacobson; brother-in-law Mike (Doreen) Williams; and many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family, church family, and friends.

Chris was preceded in death by his father Keith Warren Clark; brother Mark Fredrick Clark; grandparents Fred E. and Rosella Clark; and Fred N. and Matilda (Tilly) Rupp.

SERVICES

11:00 a.m., Tuesday
February 6, 2024
Skate Palace
Ida Grove, Iowa

Memorial Service Link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=umHwSlAgr8o

OFFICIATING

Pastor Tyler Parson

CASKET BEARERS

Pallbearers
Kim Conover
Derek Leonard
Isaac Schmidt
Thomas Oberreuter
Rusty Sadler
Brian Buehler
Nate Nelson
Lance Hamann

Honorary Pallbearers
Sullivan Leonard
Ronan Leonard
Emery Leonard
Brooke Schmidt
Kaylin Schmidt
Silas Parson
Deacon Parson
Tabitha Parson
Also Chris's Nieces, Nephews,
& All Those Who Have Blessed Chris's Life

VISITATION

4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Monday, February 5, 2024
Arthur Evangelical Free Church
Arthur, Iowa

MUSIC

"Christ Is Enough"
"In Christ Alone"
"Blessed Be Your Name" ~ congregational hymn
"Shout To The Lord" ~ congregational hymn
"I Can Only Imagine" ~ recorded
 
Praise Team, Musicians

INTERMENT

2:00 p.m., Wednesday
February 7, 2024
Williams Township Cemetery
rural Williams, Iowa


Condolences


Sunday, April 14, 2024 at 10:00 PM
“Im in complete shock of Chris's sudden passing away and my deepest condolences to his famly”
- Matthew Swanson
Thursday, February 8, 2024 at 9:58 AM
“My thoughts and prayers are with Chris’s family. I’m so sorry for your loss. ”
- Faye Senne
Thursday, February 8, 2024 at 9:58 AM
“So sad to hear about Chris passing away. He was always so happy and engaging, quick with kind words and supportive. He will be missed and my heart goes out to you. May your memories of him bring you comfort.”
- Becky (Godbersen) Hoffarth
Tuesday, February 6, 2024 at 9:04 AM
“So sorry for your loss . Chris was a upper classmen to Norm and I when we came to Quimby and Chris always made sure we would get rides home after the sports that we shared. I will always have all the memories of that close to my heart.”
- Tim Gehrke
Tuesday, February 6, 2024 at 9:04 AM
“So sorry to hear about your loss. He was such a kind man. Steve & I both enjoyed having conversations with him. It's been a long time since we've seen him. Such a shock! ”
- Steve & Marilyn Kofmehl
Monday, February 5, 2024 at 1:58 PM
“Marj, Truman, and Ruthie, my deepest sympathies for your loss. My heart is shattered over this news. He was truly a disciple of Jesus and displayed the love of Christ. I cherish the moments over the years where Chris spoke Godly wisdom and counsel into my life. I pray for peace and comfort for you as we mourn and celebrate his life. ”
- Jeff Carlson
Monday, February 5, 2024 at 1:58 PM
“Ruth and family, we are all thinking of you at this sad and challenging time. As you experience the inevitable feelings of loss and sorrow, please know that we are here for you.”
- Class of 2023
Monday, February 5, 2024 at 1:58 PM
“I am so very sorry. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.”
- Cheryl Chapman
Monday, February 5, 2024 at 1:58 PM
“So very sorry to learn of Chris’ passing. I knew him at Iowa State and thought it has been many years, remember him well, as that was the kind of guy he was. Praying fro Chris and all of his family.”
- John Fields
Monday, February 5, 2024 at 1:58 PM
“I will always remember how kind of a person Chris was when working with him through Golden Harvest. Honest, kind, and considerate. My sympathy to Marge and the entire family in this loss. ”
- Ruth Sake
Monday, February 5, 2024 at 1:58 PM
“It is with a heavy heart that we read the announcement of your father's passing. Please know, Truman and Ruth, that many are praying for you. May you know the peace that passes all understanding during this very, very difficult time.”
- Dordt Campus Store - Shar and Leah
Monday, February 5, 2024 at 1:58 PM
“Having grown up with Chris he was always a happy and ready friend. So many great memories of playing sports, joking around, working together, and getting in some trouble… It is far to soon for such a wonderful soul to leave us. I pray that the Lord’s blessings will bring strength and comfort to his family and all his friends. ”
- Todd Harder
Monday, February 5, 2024 at 1:57 PM
“My sincere condolences for the untimely loss of Chris! While I never had the opportunity to meet Chris, I share the loss with Don & Joan Williams, and Marjorie and her children.
We are planting several trees thru the National Arboretum in memory of Chris! ”
- James Swanke
Monday, February 5, 2024 at 1:57 PM
“Our sincere condolences to Marjorie, her children, and our dear friends, Don & Joan Williams.
May Chris rest in peace for eternity with the LORD!”
- James Swanke
Monday, February 5, 2024 at 1:57 PM
“To the family of Chris Clark,

After graduating from high school in Williams, I lived in Storm Lake for a few years and worked for the theatres in Cherokee for a couple of years.

Chris’ obituary read like an old home week for me.

Please accept my sincere condolences in his passing.
- Gary Fisher
Monday, February 5, 2024 at 1:57 PM
“I was so sorry to hear of this news. I so enjoyed getting to know your family a few years ago. Praying for you all. Jackie Davis, Northwestern College”
- Jackie Davis, Northwestern College
Monday, February 5, 2024 at 1:57 PM
“Marge Truman and Ruth, what a shock. Fond memories of our weekend together last month. Some highlights from our conversations: Proud parents looking forward to the success of your children's future. And the commitment to your Church camp. I will always cherish my time in college with Chris, and our weekend together. Psalm 34 vs 18, The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.. ”
- Brian McClarren
Sunday, February 4, 2024 at 11:56 AM
“I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Chris. My thoughts and prayers are with you all ”
- Ann Blenner Bowman
Sunday, February 4, 2024 at 11:56 AM
“I was shocked to hear of Chris's sudden passing, he touched so many lives. He and my late son -in-law, Clark Voge, were classmates and friends. My prayers and sympathy to you, Marg and family. God Bless you all as He will be your guide.”
- Loreen Moneypenny
Sunday, February 4, 2024 at 11:56 AM
“Our deepest sympathies on the passing of Chris. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. ”
- Robert, Ricci, Cole, Cline
Sunday, February 4, 2024 at 11:56 AM
“We are praying for your family. May you find peace and rest in our loving Father.”
- Kent & Phyllis Schlinz
Sunday, February 4, 2024 at 11:56 AM
“Our thoughts and prayers are with you all🙏🙏🙏”
- Jamie and Karmen Hodgdon
Sunday, February 4, 2024 at 11:56 AM
“I am so sorry and sad to hear of our loss. Chris was one of my very best friends in my younger years and remained the same throughout life. I have so many wonderful memories of the great times that we spent together. He was a great role model and example for me to follow always. Chris was so kind and gentle and loving yet so strong and ferocious on the football field in high school. Chris was a devout Christian which was so evident through his caring smile and positive words for others. I loved him like he was my brother. We were brothers in Christ and always will be. God must have decided that his wings were ready, but our hearts weren’t. I’ll think of him everyday. God bless his family and loved ones who are grieving the loss of Chris for now. We’ll be with him again someday. ”
- Bill Rhea
Sunday, February 4, 2024 at 11:55 AM
“To Chris,
Although you have left your physical body, I know your soul will live on forever. Looking at all the people whose lives you've touched, I hope we can use your memory to embody the joy and compassion you brought us all. Thank you for your kindness this past year. Peace and condolences to you and your family.”
- Jordan Flewelling
Sunday, February 4, 2024 at 11:55 AM
“Deepest Sympathy to the families of Chris , What a great guy who will be missed by many. May he Rest in Peace. ”
- Duane Mummert
Sunday, February 4, 2024 at 11:55 AM
“Marj, Truman and Ruth
We are all shocked and saddened by the passing of Chris! He was truly a Man of God, following Him every day. May your memories bring you peace and happiness in the midst of your grief. I can only imagine the joy he has being in the presence of his eternal Father! Much love to each of you.”
- Teresa Hunt
Sunday, February 4, 2024 at 11:55 AM
“He was very special man and I'm so sorry for your loss. We are praying for you and your family!!!”
- Dan and Deb Sharp
Sunday, February 4, 2024 at 11:55 AM
“So sorry to here about your loss Chris was a great guy.
You have our sincerest condolences.”
- Ron Harder
Friday, February 2, 2024 at 3:35 PM
“My heartfelt condolences to Joe, Norma, and all of the Clark family. May you find some peace and comfort in the many wonderful memories you have of Chris. ”
- Nancy Hayes
Friday, February 2, 2024 at 2:24 PM
“I was so sorry to hear about Chris.. He was such a nice young man.”
- Barb Volkert
Friday, February 2, 2024 at 2:14 PM
“Our deepest sympathy to Chris’s family! Such a kind person gone far too soon. His kindness lives on in his wonderful children.”
- Randy and Pippa Fineran
Friday, February 2, 2024 at 12:43 PM
“Chris was and is man of God who demonstrated his love for family, church family and friends. He will be missed here for a while but we plan on meeting him again. Prayers for the family are happening.”
- Dave and Pam Cooper
Friday, February 2, 2024 at 12:43 PM
“Prayers for your whole family, Chris was a wonderful man and friend and will truly be missed. May God wrap you all in his arms and give you comfort and peace knowing you will someday see him again.”
- Dana Sitzmann and family
Friday, February 2, 2024 at 12:43 PM
“We were shocked to hear about Chris' passing. We always enjoyed talking with Chris after church at Summit. We are sending many prayers for God's peace and strength to Marj, Truman, and Ruth during this time.”
- Tom and Donna Musel
Friday, February 2, 2024 at 12:43 PM
“We are so sad to hear this news. Our kids attend college with Ruth & Truman and they were deeply impacted to hear this. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May you feel the peaceful presence of the Spirit.”
- Kristy Moss
Friday, February 2, 2024 at 12:43 PM
“We are so sorry for your loss. We met Chris and Welcome Week at Dordt. You all are a wonderful family. We will be praying for you.-Jesus be near. ”
- Troy and Jennifer Roush
Friday, February 2, 2024 at 12:43 PM
“Ruth, Truman, and Family--We have been praying for you all week--and will continue to do so, asking for the Holy Spirit to be real and near to you. We hope that the words of Psalm 116:15 can be of some comfort, "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints". We are so sorry that this was abrupt--and we stand ready to support you, please let us know what we can do. Erik Hoekstra, Dordt University”
- Erik Hoekstra-Dordt University
Friday, February 2, 2024 at 12:43 PM
“Deeply saddened by Chis's sudden passing. Our heartfelt condolences to your family.”
- Kim and Randy Nieman
Friday, February 2, 2024 at 12:43 PM
“Dear Norma, Joe, Julie and to all his siblings I was so saddened to hear of loss of your son and brother. I pray you find comfort in your cherished memories now and in the time ahead. ”
- Terri Wright Chester
Friday, February 2, 2024 at 12:43 PM
“Marj, Truman, & Ruth — Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.
- Class of 2021
Friday, February 2, 2024 at 12:43 PM
“My heart is broken over the news that Chris is no longer here with us. He was a tireless disciple spreading the gospel, comforting and encouraging those in need, and leading people to Christ. Prayers and hugs for peace and comfort for Marj, Truman and Ruth, and his CrossRidge Church family, as they learn to navigate life missing him.”
- Sue Smith
Friday, February 2, 2024 at 12:43 PM
“Marj, Truman, and Ruth - we are so deeply sorry for your loss, words are inadequate. Chris always had a warm smile and positive attitude toward everyone he met and everything he did. It is easy to see his legacy of kindness, strength, work ethic, and faith in you, Ruth and Truman. We're praying for you all, hoping that the presence of family and friends as well as the good memories of time spent together will help to bring you a little bit of peace.”
- Doug, Julia, Anna, and Marshall Mogensen
Friday, February 2, 2024 at 12:43 PM
“Mrs Clark ,my sweet Truman and Ruth I pray for God to strengthen your hearts today and everyday for this journey. May the hope of Heaven, the joy on Mr. Clarks face in the presence of his King and the tender touch of our Fathers embrace bring you comfort. May his legacy and passion for Christ be a driving force for your family. ”
- Shannon Crain
Friday, February 2, 2024 at 12:43 PM
“So sorry to hear about Chris .such a shock. God must have known he was a special person and needed him near . Praying for the family .”
- Trudy Schroeder
Friday, February 2, 2024 at 12:43 PM
“Family,
My heart aches for you. I was never able to thank your family for standing beside with when I lost my Jeff. I have great memories of visits at church, and when he and Jeff dressed up like hitmen to take the kids to prom. He leaves us all with the hope that he was a firm believer in God's word. All my love and prayers. ”
- Jodie Hudson
Friday, February 2, 2024 at 12:43 PM
“Marge, our hearts break for you and your family at this time. Our time on earth is in God’s hand but so hard to understand sometimes. Such a shock. Nick and I have so enjoyed getting to know you and Chris. Continuing to pray for you. ”
- Nick and Becky Caskey
Thursday, February 1, 2024 at 11:35 AM
“Our thoughts and prayers are with you all Marj, Truman, and Ruth. Chris was a very kind person who was always very positive. I know he will be missed very much. I know it is a difficult time, but know we are thinking of you. . ”
- Kurt and Kim Brown
Thursday, February 1, 2024 at 11:35 AM
“My deepest sympathy to Chris’ family. I met Chris through my brother who met Chris while attending Iowa State. Chris’ brief visits while sitting around my family’s kitchen table made big impacts on my faith walk. Chris was the REAL DEAL and I always admired him for being nothing but genuine. His passing is a profound loss for the world, but a huge gain for heaven. ”
- Laura (Blazek) Norcross
Thursday, February 1, 2024 at 11:35 AM
“Marge, Truman, and Ruth...we are so sorry for your loss. May God be with you and wrap you in his arms in the days to come. Our hearts and prayers are with you. Hold on to all of the wonderful memories. ”
- Dave and Cyndi Larson
Thursday, February 1, 2024 at 11:35 AM
“I am so sorry about your loss. I have had the opportunity to get to know Truman and Ruth on a personal level and they are two of the most amazing people I know. I can tell that they had a wonderful father who raised them to be lights in this world.”
- Jeremiah Peterson
Thursday, February 1, 2024 at 11:35 AM
“Why God takes the good ones young, I don’t understand. So sorry to all of Chris’ loved ones for your loss. How blessed you are to have loved and been loved by such a man!”
- Michelle Reimer
Thursday, February 1, 2024 at 11:35 AM
“My most sincere condolences to the family of Chris Clark. My memory of Chris goes back to the late 70's and early 80's as this student and athlete of mine at Willow High School.
Chris was one of a kind.... a great athlete, super student, a good friend to all and overall fantastic individual. Never saying a bad word about anyone and conducting himself always in a positive respectful way.
I haven't spoken to Chris in many years but I can honestly say he has come to my mind more times than I know. He was that impactful to me as a student, teacher, coach relationship could possibly be.
Forever in my heart and mind.
Dave Gustafson”
- David Gustafson
Thursday, February 1, 2024 at 11:35 AM
“We were so surprised and saddened to hear about this news. Our sincere sympathies to all the family.”
- Deb Koch
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 3:47 PM
“We were shocked to hear of Chris’s passing. Great memories of the trip years ago to NOLA and seeing you at Hidden Acres. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time Psalms 116:15. Precious in the sight of the Lord if the death of his faithful servants. God welcomes those who love Him.”
- Paul & Colleen Erdmann
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 3:47 PM
“ So sorry to hear the passing of Chris, My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of the Chris Clark family, through this sad time of your loss.”
- Lora Mc Murrin
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 1:42 PM
“We have known Chris & Marge for just a short time but admire you two so much and so sorry for the family's loss. Grace Church in Indianola have been and will continue to pray for you all as you grieve Chris' homegoing.”
- Greg Abbott
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 1:42 PM
“We ache for you, Marge, Truman and Ruth, at the sudden passing of your husband and father. Our prayers will continue to be spoken for you to the Lord for unusual and divine strength and deep comfort from God.
We loved Chris. ”
- Dale & Ruth Landegent
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 1:42 PM
“So very sorry to hear about Chris. He was always a great guy to be around and will be missed. Thoughts and prayers with your family as you deal with your loss.”
- Bob McMurrin
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 1:42 PM
“So sorry to hear this. I met Chris thru his cousin Pat. He was one of the good ones. We had good times together in college and after. Chris's heart was with his family and his faith. Good bless him. ”
- Joe Toohey
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 1:42 PM
“Our deepest sympathies to Marge, Truman and Ruth. Chris was such a kind, gentle soul. Always a big smile on his face and Jesus in his heart. ”
- Terry and Lisa Rasmussen
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 1:42 PM
“I'm so sad to hear of Chris' passing. What great neighbors and how many wonderful memories of school bus tides, baseball games on the field or in the Husman's front yard. Know my heart aches for you all and that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Big hugs and much love to you all. May God be with you. ”
- Brenda Husman
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 9:12 AM
“Our hearts are broken over the unexpected passing of our dear friend and brother in Christ. Chris touched so many lives with his kindness, encouragement, and care for others. He will be missed by so many people. Sending our love and sympathy to Marj, Truman, and Ruth.”
- Joel and Monica Wellendorf
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 9:12 AM
“Prayers and hugs Marge and family, so very sorry for your loss. Chris was a great guy and will be missed.
- Marilyn Dose
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 9:12 AM
“Chris was a truly kind and thoughtful man. He will be missed in more ways by more people than can be measured. Our deepest sympathy to Marge, Truman, Ruth and all family and friends. Love and faith will prevail during this difficult time and in the days ahead. ”
- Jim and Ann Holst
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 9:12 AM
“Chris was the best of the best! He was a great friend and a mighty prayer warrior. He left no doubt that he loved his Lord and his family! Until we meet again rest in peace.”
- Dave and Joyce
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 9:12 AM
“Many prayers for Chris's family. He always had a smile on his face and up for a conversation. May God Comfort you through. ”
- Angie Strom
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 9:12 AM
“So sorry to hear about Chris. We went to Willow from K-12 together and have so many fond memories of growing up together. He was a kind soul and I know he will be dearly missed by his family and friends. ”
- Kim Knapp Hart
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 9:12 AM
“We are so sorry for your loss. He was a great guy and he will be missed. Shirley and Bruce TRULSEN ”
- Shirley and Bruce Trulsen
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 9:12 AM
“A member of Crossridge family, Chris was such a joy, always a hug, a question to all, "How are you, how can I pray for you?" our hearts are shattered, for us, but we his family know, he's smiling with Jesus!”
- Michael and Carole Arsenault
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 9:12 AM
“We cannot think of Chris without smiling! He was the brightest, warmest, and most positive human being. His light will be sorely missed. His legacy will live on in those who practice their faith, live with gentle dignity and treat others with kindness. ”
- Lynne & Randy Clinton
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 9:12 AM
“I was very shocked when I heard this very unexpected news! I had just seen and talked to him. Our deepest sympathy goes out to the whole family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏”
- Donnie & Susan Schirmer and Family
Tuesday, January 30, 2024 at 3:22 PM
“I’m so sorry for your loss. Chris the sweetest guy. He will truly be missed. Hugs and prayers for his family..”
- Carla Schubert
Tuesday, January 30, 2024 at 3:22 PM
“All of us were deeply saddened upon receiving this unexpected news. Chris loved the Lord, his family, his church family and many friends in a profound and expressive way. Pam and I will be keeping the family in prayer.”
- Pastor Dave Cooper
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