BLOOMSBURG—Former Bloomsburg University All-American football player Brian Clarke passed away on Friday, Jan. 15, 2016 after a nearly two-year battle with cancer.
 
Arrangements for Brian Clarke: Thursday - 4-8pm -Viewing Friday-9:45-10:45 am. Funeral Mass at 11:00 am. Both viewings and funeral at St. Andre Bessette Catholic Church, 672 N. Main St Wilkes Barre, PA 18705. Burial following funeral at St. Mary's Cemetery 1594 S. Main St Hanover Twp. PA 18706.

On-Line Obituary
 
Clarke was dominant during his Bloomsburg career helping pave the way for the Huskies to rush for 3,762 yards and rank sixth among all Division II teams in rushing during the 2013 season after ranking fifth in 2012. Clarke was a finalist for the Gene Upshaw Award representing the nation's top Division II lineman in 2012 and 2013, finishing third in the voting in 2013. He was named first team All-America by the Associated Press, D2Football.com, Daktronics, Don Hansen Football Gazette and Beyond Sports Network and was a preseason Sporting News All-American.

A 6-3, 290-pound right guard, Clarke was also extremely durable while wearing the maroon and gold – he made 38 career starts including 35 straight from 2011-13. He was also a first team All-PSAC East pick in 2011, 2012 and 2013. Following the 2013 season, he received an invitation to play in the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl in Los Angeles. After going undrafted he signed a free agent contract with the Dallas Cowboys.
 
Bloomsburg University head football coach Paul Darragh expressed his condolences.
 
"Brian was an outstanding young man, great player, teammate and friend," said Darragh. "His legacy here at Bloomsburg is that he is one of the best ever to play his position. His passing has touched our program deeply and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and his Husky brothers."
 
Clarke's position coach at Bloomsburg, Brian McBryan, was deeply touched by his former player passing away.
 
"Brian's work ethic on and off the field was unparalleled," commented McBryan. "One of his most impressive attributes was his ability to motivate those around him to perform. Brian fought his battle with cancer with the same courageous manner that he fought his battles on Danny Hale field."