05/14/2026
We are deeply saddened by the loss of Joe Clark, one of the founding members and one of the pilots of the Windswept Aeronauts Hot Air Balloon Club.
Joe was instrumental in organizing the local hot air balloon festivals that became beloved staples of the Three Rivers Festival and the Allen County 4-H Fair for many years. Even after retiring from active ballooning, he continued sharing his passion for the sport by officiating at several national hot air balloon events.
Joe was a great pilot for Windswept, funny, knowledgeable, and always willing to share his love of ballooning with others. He and his wife Barb shared 39 years together, and the impact Joe left on the ballooning community and everyone who knew him will not be forgotten. He will be greatly missed.
"May the winds welcome you with softness.
May the sun bless you with its warm hands.
May you fly so high and so well that God joins you in laughter.
And sets you gently back into the loving arms of Mother Earth."
