I would like to begin by offering my condolences to the entire Clarke family. Andrew was a dear friend and recognized his devotion to family and his friends. You have lost a loving husband, a wonderful dad, an incredible son, a great brother, terrific uncle and I lost one of my best friends.

As teenagers, we both attended Humberside Collegiate Institute. Although we were 3 years apart in age, we still managed to become very good friends. Upon graduation, as our buddies left for far away universities Andrew and I remained in Toronto. I remember we would have study sessions at Christine’s and Miwa’s apartment. Truth be told, those study sessions turned into card games and Dr. Mario. On occasion, we would find ourselves at Billy Bobs, a local bar in Bloor West Village. We both buckled down and worked hard. Regardless of our misadventures, we managed to be successful.

For 20 past years, our good friend Peter Ruprecht, organized our Sauble golf trips. Andrew was always the first to offer a ride up north. It was a 3 hour trip.
This allowed us time to contemplate life and the state of world affairs. A constant topic was the state of the Toronto Maple Leaf franchise. Who to trade, who to keep and who to put in the starting line ups. As you can clearly see, we discussed very important world affairs.

I remember sharing a client concern with Andrew. I was dealing with a challenging client and I was struggling with a rebuttal. About 1/2 hour later Andrew took the time and sent me an example of what to say to this client. I wish I kept that email but Dear %^&* face was the opening……I was in stitches.

There comes a time in every man’s life when he falls in love. Allison, I know that Andrew was smitten by your beauty. The indescribable joy he felt when Owen and Johnny came into this world. The stories he would share. His love for them is endless.

Apart from my fond memories of Andrew, tears alone cannot express the depth of my grief. He will be sadly missed.