On the morning of Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024, Thomas Duane “Chick” Clements died peacefully at Wellbrooke of Crawfordsville at the age of 89.
Chick was born May 25, 1934, at Crawfordsville, to Ruth and Vernon Clements. He graduated from Crawfordsville High School in 1952. He briefly attended Butler University on an athletic scholarship. He then served in the Korean War. After returning from the war, he married Janet Payne in June, 1956; his life-long partner of 64 years. He worked as the Athletic Department Equipment Manager for Wabash College from 1966 to 2003. While at Wabash, he was made an Honorary Alumnus, Class of 1977. In 1998 he was inducted into the Wabash College Athletic Hall of Fame. And in 2022, a Little Giants Football Stadium suite was dedicated in his name.
Chick and Janet spent countless hours exercising, dancing and riding their bikes together. He also spent countless hours hunting, fishing and talking sports to anyone who would partake. He liked to whistle. It was the signal to his family that “dad is home.” A home steeped in structure and stability. He was steadfast and dedicated to his duties as a father and husband and a role-model for work ethic and appreciating the simple things in life. He carried these traits over to his work at Wabash College where he found his calling not only as the Athletic Department Equipment Manager but also a mentor, advocate, friend and father-figure to generations of Wabash men. He was as devoted to the Wabash community as it was to him. It was his devotion to the spirit and place of all things Wabash that made him “some Little Giant.”
Chick is survived by three children, Damon Clements (Robin), Angela Clements and Steve Clements (Michellene); and six grandchildren, Kyle Clements (Kelly), Kristin Johnson (Hunter), Patrick Clements, Joshua Clements (Marissa), Carrie Ann Clements and Casey Clements; several great-grandchildren; and brother Jack Clements (Susie).
Chick was preceded in death by his wife Janet; son Andy; parents Vernon and Ruth; sister Mary; and brothers Robert, Maurice and baby David.
Per Chick’s request, no service is planned.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local animal shelter or rescue.
