Friends remember Clark Santini

Monday, Nov. 25, 1996 | 11:59 a.m.

More than 400 people attended a memorial service for Santini on Sunday at the Wilbur D. May Museum in Rancho San Rafael Park.

Santini is credited as being the driving force behind the park's creation.

"Clark Santini never attained material wealth," said Sen. Richard Bryan, D-Nev. "He never held public office. But he has done more to shape our community than many who did."

Santini, who had throat cancer, shot himself in the head on Riverside Drive along the Truckee River on Nov. 14, two days before his 55th birthday.

Santini's father, Walter, served two decades as president of the University of Nevada. Clark Santini sought a seat on the Board of Regents but was eliminated in the primary.

He also was the brother of former Nevada Rep. Jim Santini.

Clark Santini spent 20 years on the UNR Alumni Association council, with a stint as president. He served 25 years in law enforcement, including work as a State Gaming Control Board investigator. He most recently advised clients seeking unemployment compensation.

Before the service, friends walked along the Truckee River sharing fond memories of Santini.

"He loved the trembling leaves along the river," said Rose Strickland, an environmentalist who worked with Santini to ward off developers from Rancho San Rafael Park.

Santini's friends said it was appropriate to hold the memorial service at Rancho San Rafael, a park he dearly loved.

"People have asked me why we didn't hold the service in a cathedral," said Monsignor Leo McFadden, who officiated the ceremony. "This is Clark's cathedral."