John Clark was born in August 29, 1911 to John and Ida May Clark, who lived in Parkesburg, Pennsylvania. John was one of six siblings. His father was well known as a horse and cattle dealer. 

John worked at the Evergreen tank division of Lukens Steel.

John entered service in the Army in November, 1942. After training, he was deployed overseas in August to serve with the 12th Regiment, 1st Calvary Division

Private First Class John Clark was fatally wounded on Leyte Island, Phillipines on December 22, 1944 and is buried at Fort Bonifacio, Manila, Philippines.

John's brother, Levi served in World War II in a medical division in Germany.