Clark Martin Den Otter, 91, of Black Hawk, South Dakota, passed away on January 20th at the Michael J. Fitzmaurice State Veterans Home in Hot Springs, South Dakota.

Clark was born in Sinai, SD, the youngest of three children. He grew up in Volga, SD and worked as a young boy pulling thistles, painting barns, feeding cows, and driving tractors. Growing up during the depression, he learned the value of hard work and this work ethic guided him the rest of his life.

He left home when he was 14 and came to the Black Hills of South Dakota. He worked as a hired hand to ranchers in the area. That is, until he was drafted to serve in the Korean War. He proudly served as a US Marine and attained the rank of corporal. He was to be promoted to the rank of Sergeant if he agreed to re-enlist. His commanding Gunnery Sergeant handed him the papers to sign and said, "they would be so proud of him at home with his new rank". Clark's response was, "the only thing I have waiting for me is a bunch of cows and they don't care if I'm a Sergeant."

Following his service in the Marines, he met his future wife Carol March at a square dance. They were married October 23, 1955 and shared a loving marriage of over 64 years.

Clark farmed and worked various construction jobs over the years as a heavy duty mechanic. He retired from the South Dakota State Cement Plant. In his free time, he would take the family camping and travelling throughout the western United States.

He is survived by his daughter, LeeAnn Den Otter (Black Hawk) and his son, Scott (Koleen) Den Otter (Piedmont). He is the grandfather of four boys, Ary (D.J.) Den Otter, Steven (Amie) Den Otter, Garett Den Otter and Austin Wiehl. He is also survived by four great-grandchildren Elsie, Ruby, Hattie and August.

Clark was preceded in death by his wife, Carol; his parents, Ary and Selma (Olson) Den Otter; sister, Gladys Halstead; and brother, Stanley Den Otter.

Please join us in celebrating his life on January 25, 2021 at 10:30 am at Black Hills Funeral Home in Sturgis, SD. Interment will be held at Black Hills National Cemetery.