J. Clark Schartz, 80, of Mission, KS passed away Wednesday, August 23, 2017 at the Olathe Hospice House.

Clark was born July 12, 1937 to the late Wilfred and Elsie Mae Schartz in Great Bend, KS.  He attended Ellinwood High School and earned a bachelor's of education from Kansas State University and a master's degree in biology from Emporia State University.  After graduating, Clark started his teaching career in Baldwin, KS before transferring to Shawnee Mission North in 1966.  On December 30, 1963 Clark married the love of his life, Katherine (Katie) Smrha. He retired from teaching in 1994.  Clark was an amateur botanist and loved growing orchids at his home.  He enjoyed spending time outside climbing mountains, scuba diving, making jewelry and collecting rocks and fossil hunting in the chalk beds of southwestern Kansas.  Clark was active in 4H and was National Entomology Champion and later served as a judge for Entomology and Rocketry.  During the summer months, Clark enjoyed returning to the family farm and helping with the daily chores.

He is preceded in death by his infant brother, Sonny Schartz.  Clark is survived by his loving wife, Katherine; a daughter, Lisa Shutleff and husband Brian; son, Jeffrey Schartz, Sr. and wife Melissa; six grandchildren, Olivia Shurtleff; Hunter Shurtleff; Griffen Shurtleff, Taylor Schartz-Loving and husband Rudy Loving; Jeffrey Schartz, Jr.; Samuel Schartz; three great grandchildren, RJ Loving; Caden Wright; Mason Hill; two brothers, Leigh Schartz and wife Ellen; Barry Schartz and wife Charlotte; two adopted grandchildren, Dana and Cody.

Visitation and Services

Visitation will be 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday, August 31, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will follow visitation at 10:30 am.

Memorial Contributions

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Olathe Hospice House, 15310 South Marion, Olathe, KS, 66061 or to Alzheimer’s Association-Heart of America Chapter 3846 W. 75th St., Prairie Village, KS, 66208.