Clarke T. “Tom” Fogel 77, of Gold Canyon, Arizona, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026, in Mesa, Arizona following an illness.
Clarke was born in Freeport, Illinois on October 10, 1948. He attended St. Mary’s Catholic School and Aquin High School, as well as Highland Community College. After high school Clarke served in the United States Navy in the Pacific Fleet during The Vietnam War (Conflict). He was stationed in Hawaii, where one of his duties was helping to maintain the USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor. Traveling to Vietnam, Philippines, Thailand and various other islands in the Pacific.
Clarke returned home to Freeport, IL and found work as a 7up Distributor. He later dedicated his life to a career in law enforcement. Beginning with the Stephenson County Sheriff’s Department where he served for 5 years. After which Mike Lowary, a good friend for many years, suggested he apply for the State Police. He was accepted and went on to the academy, graduated and served the people of Illinois for 25 years. During his time with the State Police, he was a trained hazmat tech, member of a bomb squad, one of the first Motorcycle Officers in District 16, commercial vehicle inspector and Field Training Officer. In addition, he was an active member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles and Fraternal Order of the Police.
Clarke married Patricia Shade McGregory in 2003. After retiring they moved to Gold Canyon, Arizona. He enjoyed hunting, golf and Motorcycle rides on his BMW. Camping and riding the RZR in the beautiful Arizona Desert.
Family was paramount to Clarke. He is survived by, wife Patricia “Patti”, his daughters, Kristin (Andy Davis) of Blue Mounds Wisconsin, Leslie (Brett Riemen) of McFarland, Wisconsin, his step son, Jeremy McGregory of Durand, Illinois. His nine grandchildren were his pride and joy: Delton (Makala), Bennett, and Heath Davis: Kendall and Talia Riemen and David, William, Jacob and Lillian McGregory. He is also Survived by his brother, Timothy, sister Tracey and brother, Tad both of Mesa, his bulldog, Mick Monster. As well as a close knit extended family.
Clarke is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Patricia; his brother, Terry, and many aunts, uncles, cousins and dear close friends.
Clarke will be deeply missed and remain in our hearts forever.
Plans for a Celebration of life are pending in both Gold Canyon, AZ and Freemont, IL.