Jared E. Clark

Jared E. Clark, 44, died March 12, 2024, at St. Luke's Mid America Heart Institute in Kansas City, Missouri. He was born November 16, 1979 in Manhattan, Kansas. A lifelong resident of the Little Apple, Jared was an Eagle Scout, a graduate of Manhattan High School and an alumnus of Kansas State University. Jared was a dedicated Magic: The Gathering player, known both for his strategic prowess and his willingness to teach the game to newcomers. His love for the game was matched by his affection for bad movies. What truly set Jared apart was his empathetic nature and his readiness to support those around him. Always available for a chat or to offer a listening ear, he was a beacon of empathy and loyalty. Jared's unique blend of hobbies, his compassionate spirit, and his genuine care for others made him a cherished friend. He began working in local radio while still in high school. He started out wearing a kangaroo costume as the station's mascot and then became an on-air personality. For years, people knew him by his DJ name "Jarrod O'Neil." Jared turned his high school job into a career and from 1998 to 2010 fans of KROCK 101.5 FM knew Jared as "J-Rod." After leaving Manhattan Broadcasting, Jared helped shape the next generation of radio and media personalities as program director of K-State's student-run radio station KSDB 91.9 FM. Jared won numerous collegiate and professional Kansas Association of Broadcasting awards. Jared was also a painter whose unique works were featured in local businesses and will be cherished by those lucky enough to have one of his creations. In 2012, Jared was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus which attacked his body. In 2022, Jared had two heart valves replaced. He was undergoing a procedure to correct a leak around a valve when he suffered cardiac arrest. He was preceded in death by his father, Wayne Clark. Jared is survived by his mother, Brenda Clark; his brother, Devin Clark (Jamie), and their children, Dean and Allison; and his brother, Adam Clark (Lindsy), of Manhattan. He will be deeply missed by his longtime companion, Mary Renee Shirk, and his buddy Winston the Chihuahua. A celebration of Jared's life will be held later this spring.

Jared E. Clark

November 16, 1979 - March 12, 2024