Clarence "Korky" Korker - U.S. Navy Armed Guard 1943-45
Clarence Korker interview from 2020
Clarence "Korky" Korker - U.S. Navy Armed Guard 1943-45
Our Great Friend and Supporter of USAWS - WWII NAVY ARMED GUARD veteran - Mr. Clarence F. “KORKY” Korker Jr. Passed away 03-13-2026 at the age of 102
Funeral held at Brookside Historical Cemetery in Sebastian, Florida with full Military Honors by he Sebastian Area Honor Guard on 03-25-2026.
View details at strunkfuneralhome.com/obituary/clarence-korker-jr
Clarence F. "Korky" Korker Jr. Funeral Service
Born on March 9, 1925, in New Canaan, Connecticut the son of Clarence F. Korker, Sr and Irene Dean Murphy. Korky lived a remarkable life that spanned over a century and left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
A proud veteran of World War II, Korky enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1943 and served with distinction as part of the Navy Armed Guard. This specialized branch was tasked with manning guns on Merchant Marine ships during the war. Korky’s role as chief photographer at the Brooklyn Navy Yard placed him at the heart of history, where he documented public relations events, photographed VIPs and naval ships before and after battle, and contributed to the bi-weekly newsletter "The Pointer,” which connected Armed Guard personnel both at sea and on base. He concluded his military service in 1945 as a 3rd Class Photographic Petty Officer.
In 1951, Korky and his beloved wife Geraldine ("Gerry") embarked on a new chapter when they purchased the Ridgefield Photo Shop & Studio in Ridgefield, Connecticut. Together, they transformed the business into a thriving enterprise that became a cornerstone of their community. The shop offered a full range of photographic services, including portraiture, wedding photography, commercial work, custom framing, and retail and wholesale photo finishing. Under their stewardship, the business grew to become the second-largest Kodak dealer on the East Coast during the late 1960s and early 1970s. After decades of dedication to their craft and community, Korky and Gerry retired to Fellsmere, Florida, in 1991.
Korky’s passion for civic engagement was evident throughout his life. He was an active member of numerous organizations, including Kiwanis, Odd Fellows, the American Legion, the Ridgefield Historical Society, the Indian River County Historical Society, and the U.S. Navy Armed Guard World War II Veterans Group in Fellsmere. He was president of the U.S. Navy Armed Guard & Merchant Marines Museum with its national headquarters formerly located in Fellsmere and Vero Beach. His commitment to preserving history and enhancing his community was perhaps most evident in his efforts to save Fellsmere's historic "Old Public School" from demolition. Through his leadership and determination to rally public support and secure restoration grants, the building was preserved and repurposed as Fellsmere City Hall. In recognition of his contributions, the Fellsmere City Council honored him by naming the auditorium on the second floor “The Clarence F. Korker Center for the Performing Arts” in 2012.
Korky’s legacy extends beyond his professional achievements and civic contributions. Known as a gentleman and role model by all who met him, he was admired for his kindness and ability to connect with people across generations and geographies—from Connecticut to Florida and beyond. His warmth and friendship enriched countless lives.
Korky was predeceased by his cherished wife Geraldine in 2015. He is survived by his son Paul F. Korker; daughter-in-law Elisabeth; many distant cousins; and numerous relatives who will forever hold him close in their hearts.
A man of integrity, dedication, and compassion, Clarence F. "Korky" Korker leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire those who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing.
U.S. NAVY Photographers Mate Specialist, 3rd Class Clarence Korker, Korky to his friends, joined the Navy in 1943 and was assigned to the Navy Armed Guard. The Guard was tasked with defending Merchant Marine ships by manning guns mounted on the otherwise unarmed vessels. Just before Korky was posted to a ship, he had to undergo an operation that put him on light duty. He ended up in charge of the photographic department at the Brooklyn Navy Yard where the Armed Guard were stationed. The department covered every Navy Armed Guard event and ceremony that took place in and around New York City.
This video was produced by The Rowlinson Media Group, VERO BEACH, FL.
