DENVER – The Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation (Metro Denver EDC) and the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce are deeply saddened to share the passing of Tom Clark, a visionary leader whose impact on Colorado’s economy and business community is immeasurable.
Widely known as the “Godfather of Regionalism,” Clark was instrumental in shaping the collaborative economic development model that defines the Metro Denver region today. As one of the founding members of the group that eventually became the Metro Denver EDC, he was a driving force behind regional cooperation and business growth.
Clark’s leadership helped bring transformative milestones to Colorado, including securing Major League Baseball for the state, playing a key role in the development of Denver International Airport, and championing nonstop international flights that expanded Denver’s global reach. But beyond his professional accomplishments, Clark was known for his warmth, humor, and ability to bring people together. He didn’t know a stranger—he connected with everyone he met, from CEOs to small business owners, from elected officials to young professionals just starting their careers.
Collaboration was at the heart of everything Clark did. He always said, “It’s not about who gets credit, it’s about getting it done.” That philosophy shaped not only his work but also the culture of economic development in Colorado. He believed in partnerships, in breaking down silos, and in ensuring that success was shared.
“You can’t imagine Denver as it is today without Tom,” said U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper. “He had an uncanny ability to bring people together and overcome differences. Tom rebuilt Denver’s relationship with the surrounding communities and developed new partnerships that have launched us all forward. He knew that would make Denver, and all of us, stronger. Tom was a great friend. We will miss him.”
“With Tom’s passing we lost a true champion of Denver and the entire metro region,” said Denver Mayor Mike Johnston. “But we all will forever benefit from his decades of contributions to improve our business climate and economy, and to develop the iconic and special places that define our region. Tom was a unifying leader ahead of his time, and he pioneered a collaborative western spirit that ensured the public and private sectors tackled our biggest challenges together, and that regional communities joined together to collaborate instead of compete.”
“You can’t talk about Colorado’s economic development without talking about Tom Clark,” said President and CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, J. J. Ament. “Few people have had the kind of lasting impact that Tom Clark has. The model of regional collaboration he built is being replicated to this day, quite literally around the world. We owe so much to his vision, and his legacy continues in our work today.”
“Tom Clark didn’t just shape Colorado’s economy—he shaped my career and my life,” said President of the Metro Denver EDC, Raymond H. Gonzales. “He taught me how to be an economic developer, how to build coalitions, and how to lead with vision and integrity. More than that, he was my mentor and my friend. I wouldn’t be the leader I am today without him, and I know I’m just one of many who can say the same. Tom’s impact on our state—and on all of us who were lucky enough to learn from him—will never fade.”
“Tom Clark passed from Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), a progressive degenerative disease that limits a person’s personality, social cues, organizational skills, control over impulses and speech,” said Clark’s Geriatric Psychiatrist, Aaron Greenstein, MD. “Prior to becoming ill, Tom made significant contributions to society utilizing his interpersonal and organizational skills and speech; the very assets that FTD took away from him. There are currently no treatments or cures for FTD. The glimpses of Tom’s persona that remained left an indelible impression, and I am fortunate to have been a part of his care team.”
Plans to celebrate Tom’s life and contributions are being coordinated with his family, and details will be shared as they become available.
The Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce and Metro Denver EDC will gather with the business community to celebrate Tom Clark’s legacy on April 8 from 5-7 pm. Details will be available at denverchamber.org.
Colorado has lost a true pioneer, and his absence will be deeply felt. His legacy, however, will live on in the strong, thriving region he helped build.
About Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce
The Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce (DMCC) is the architect of tomorrow, igniting change and driving progress to build dynamic economies and communities. We champion innovation, forge powerful partnerships, and relentlessly advocate for our members and all Coloradans. With more than 150 years of trust and impact, we help business flourish. The DMCC’s vision is Economic Empowerment for Every Coloradan.
About Metro Denver EDC
The Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation (Metro Denver EDC), an affiliate of the Denver Metro Chamber, is a private, business-led economic development organization driven by the support of its corporate and community investors. Funded by businesses, for businesses, Metro Denver EDC focuses on fostering a robust economic ecosystem by attracting and retaining companies, talent, and investment to the 11-county front range region in Colorado. Through strategic collaboration with more than 100 communities and innovative initiatives, the Metro Denver EDC is committed to advancing the region’s position as a global hub for business success and community prosperity.