Clarence E. Cox, 91 years old of Fort Pierce, FL passed away on Wednesday July 31, 2024, at his home in Kenosha. Born in Evansville IN, on March 24, 1933, he was the son of the late Ernest and Carrie (Hedges) Cox. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1950 and served for four years during the Korean War followed by 32 years of service in the reserves retiring as a Captain. During his military career, he received numerous honors and awards of distinctions. He graduated from Evansville College. Clarence later received his Master’s Degree in school administration from Michigan State University. He taught and was a school administrator in Indiana, Michigan, New York and Kenosha. He met Rita Trotta Barnes in 1980, and later married on December 18, 1982. Clarence and Rita spent their time between Florida and Kenosha. They were fortunate enough to have been able to travel together extensively. Visiting places such as Thailand, Cambodia, Europe, Russia, several river cruises and many ocean cruises. One of his greatest joys was being active in his church. He was a long-standing member of Church Universal in the Grand Tetons. Each summer he would attend their conference in Montana and was a beloved usher, greeter and volunteer. He also volunteered his time in Florida at Mustard Seed Ministries Thrift Store. One year, he was recognized as Volunteer of the Year. Survivors include his wife of 42 years, Rita; children, Christopher and Carrie Cox; stepchildren, David (Francesca) Barnes and Michael (Kari) Barnes; and many treasured grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Along with his parents, Clarence was preceded in death by his five brothers and four sisters. Memorial visitation will be on Sunday, August 4, 2024, at Proko Funeral Home from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service at 2:30. Military Honors will immediately follow. He will be laid to rest at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Cemetery at a later date. If you would like to livestream the service, please copy and paste, or click on the below link.https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTcyMjU1OTYwMzMyMTY0MCZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th StreetKenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit & Sign Clarence’sOnline Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com
Condolences
Kimberly Troup
August 13, 2024
Mr Cox was my principal at HillCrest Elementary School in the 1970's. I remember how much all the students loved him, and how fun he made our school! He had a great sense of humor and his love for teaching showed in his interaction with all of us. My condolences to his family and friends-Kimberly LeMay Troup
Penelope Price
August 4, 2024
I knew Clarence through is time volunteering as an usher at our Church in Montana. He was the face of love when we arrived. I have four daughters, one in a wheelchair. He would always take time to show how pleased he was to see us. One of my daughters told me that she was sad not to have a living grandpa. Clarence heard about it and immediately volunteered to be a proxy Grandpa. It would warm my heart to see my daughter run up into his open arms and say Grandpa! He would take time to ask her how she was doing, and let her know how happy he was to see her, year after year. I am sorry for your loss, h e will be remembered by us with great fondness. Penelope Price
George Moorcroft
August 4, 2024
My deepest condolences to your entire family. I made freinds with Clarence a few years ago when I met him in Montana. My prayers go out to all who knew him. George Moorcroft. Neenah Wisconsin
Erna Spath
August 3, 2024
Dear Rita and family. So sorry to learn of Clarence's passing. You had alot of wonderful years together and created alot of memories.....remember all the happy times and keep them close. I remember that we all had alot of good times together many years ago. Stay well and keep in touch.Love, Erna
Jon Lyons
August 3, 2024
As Chaplain for the American Legion Post 21 and the Sons of The American Legion Squadron 21 in Kenosha Wisconsin, I’d like to say thank you for your service and God bless you, your family, and your friends. You’re all in my prayers. Just remember he was a gift from God and knowing him was even a bigger gift. 🙏🏻🫡
Robin Bathke
August 2, 2024
We are sorry to hear of Clarence’s passing Aunt Rita. We are so glad we got to see you both at David’s home when we visited. Our hearts are with you during this difficult time. Love, Robin, Mike and Lindsey Bathke