In Memory of Dr. Barney Clark

A Provo dentist made medical history by agreeing to die for it. Barney Clark, born here in 1921, was dying of heart failure when surgeons at the University of Utah offered him something no human had ever carried: a permanent artificial heart, the Jarvik-7, driven by an external air compressor. He accepted, knowing he would never leave the hospital. The device was implanted on December 2, 1982, and kept him alive for 112 days, through pain and setbacks, until his death on March 23, 1983. What his doctors learned in those days moved the science forward for everyone after.

What the plaque says

In memory of Dr. Barney Clark and his tremendous courage and pioneering spirit. Dr. Barney Clark dedicated his life to the practice and advancement of medicine from his entry into medical school until his death. Dr. Clark was a vital force in pioneering the use of a permanent artificial heart. He was the first recipient of this artificial heart which was surgically implanted on Dec. 2, 1982. He used this heart to sustain his life from Dec. 2, until his death on March 23, 1983. His sacrifice is immeasurable in the advancement of medicine, for this, Dr. Clark takes his place among American heroes. Dr. Clark was one of Provo’s finest sons and he will always be remembered for his dedication and courage. He was born in Provo on Jan. 21, 1921. He attended Maeser Elementary School and Dixon Jr. High. He graduated from Provo High School in 1939, Dr. Clark received a bachelors degree from B.Y.U. in zoology, graduating with honors in 1948. This memorial to Dr. Barney Clark is a tribute to his medical generosity, courage and life.

Where it stands

Worth the stop nearby

• Bridal Veil Falls — 7.6 mi
  A dramatic double waterfall cascading 607 feet into Provo Canyon
• Sundance Mountain Resort — 11 mi
  Robert Redford's intimate, arts-minded ski resort on the slopes of Mount Timpanogos, in the North Fork of Provo Canyon.
• Aspen Grove — 12 mi
  The mountain-base trailhead for Mount Timpanogos and Stewart Falls
• Alpine Loop Summit — 12 mi
  The 8,000-foot high point of the Alpine Loop, face to face with Mount Timpanogos

More markers nearby

• Superintendant's Residence-Utah State Hospit — 0.3 mi
• Maeser School — 0.3 mi
• Provo Burial Grounds — 0.7 mi
• The Knight Block — 0.7 mi