Earl Clark; Longtime Leader of MTA Drivers Union

Earl Clark, longtime leader of the union representing Metropolitan Transportation Authority bus and train operators, died Friday at USC’s Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center. He was 70.

Clark served as general chairman of the 4,200-member United Transportation Union since 1971, guiding drivers through several strikes against the Southern California Rapid Transit District, including a 68-day walkout in 1974.

MTA Chief Executive Officer Joseph E. Drew called Clark a “true labor leader of national stature.”

“His dedication and leadership in improving the work environment for his fellow operators was outstanding,” Drew said.

A native of Iowa, Clark joined the Pacific Electric Railway after serving in the Navy during World War II. He was elected vice local chairman of the UTU in 1962 and local chairman in 1966.

He is survived by Audrey, his wife of 48 years, sons Earl Roy II and Gerald R., six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Public visitation is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sunday and Monday in the stateroom lobby at Rose Hills Memorial Park, Whittier. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday in the chapel.