Francis Edward Clarkin

Bedford, TX- Frank "Chief" Clarkin, 75, of Bedford, died Tuesday, August 15th in a nursing home in Fort Worth, TX losing his battle with cancer.
He was born December 27, 1941 in New York and became a Texan in 1982. He proudly served 21 years in the US Navy and retired an officer in 1979. He was a Vietnam Vet and served 3 years as a US Marine during the conflict. He was a decorated soldier earning a purple heart and a bronze star, among others. Serving on the Forrestal Shangri-La and the US Independence, his last service was on the Kitty Hawk, squadron VF-121 Black Lions at San Diego, Miramar.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Lenora Clarkin of Bedford, TX; daughters, Shannon Clarkin also of Bedford and Kim Deeb of Altus, OK.As well as son in laws Gary Deeb of Altus, OK and Kevin Vicars of Euless, TX; His grandchildren, Jamie Schmidt of Saginaw, TX, Josh Schmidt also of Saginaw, TX, and Kyle Deeb of Fort Worth, TX; 2 great grandsons, Cameron and Cayden Schmidt of Saginaw, TX and nieces and nephews in Florida and New York.
There will be no graveside service due to his wish to be buried at sea. A memorial gathering for family and friends will be held at a date to be given later. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Francis will go to his post, The American Legion #379 in Bedford, TX at: https://www.tmcfunding.com/search-memorials/campaign/1630?layout=single