Clarence Ek of Kimball died Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in the comfort of his family and home. He was 81. 
A celebration of Clarence’s life will be held from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 7, with a remembrance service at 2:30 p.m., at Generations Ballroom in Kimball. A private, graveside service will follow at Maine Prairie Cemetery.
Clarence Dean Ek was born Feb. 26, 1937, in Minneapolis to Eric and Christina (Cook) Ek. He grew up in Minneapolis and enjoyed multiple school sports at Marshall High School. Clarence enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1955, serving two years in Italy, and returned home in 1957. At 21, he met his future wife Gail Maki. They were united in marriage April 30, 1960, in Minneapolis. They lived in Minneapolis until relocating to Kimball in 1975. Clarence worked for Northern States Power, retiring in 1995. He was a member of the Moose Club in Minneapolis and the Lions Club in Kimball. Clarence enjoyed many travels, visiting with family and friends, playing cards, and watching his grandchildren grow. He was a big teddy bear with a hard shell.
Clarence was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Jean Anne, and brothers Wayne and Leon.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years Gail; children Dean Ek of Blackduck, Kris (and Arnie) Gruenes of Richmond, and Debbie (and John) Allar of Clearwater; 10 grandchildren: Brian (and Kristen), Samantha, Dustin, Zachary, Hannah, Arnie Jr., Ashley, Andy, Meghan, and Payton; and five great-grandchildren: Nathan, William, Lillian, Noah, and Ethan.
A special “thank you” to all those who have given their care and support to Clarence and his family during this time. Arrangements are entrusted with Dingmann Funeral Care Burial & Cremation Services.