Bulk Vending Pioneer Neel Clark Dies At 63

Neel Clark

CHICAGO -- Neel C. Clark, who battled multiple sclerosis for more than two decades, died on Nov. 27. He was 63.

Clark had been a leader in the bulk vending industry since 1982, working in route operations and as a supplier. He also marketed home gumball machine banks for Carousel Industries. Late in the decade, he formed Kid Zone Inc., a bulk supplier headquartered in Chicago, with regional offices in northern and southern California. He was the first distributor to take on Concord Confections, helping to establish the manufacturer's products, which included Dubble Bubble, as national brands in the bulk channel.

Active in industry affairs, Clark held a variety of posts with the National Bulk Vendors Association, ultimately serving as its president.

After Kid Zone shut down, he became a sought-after adviser for many vending companies. His last assignment was with Parisi Vending (Oceanside, NY), maker of the All-American Chicken Machine.

"Neel was known for helping everyone in the bulk vending industry," said Frank Parisi. "He especially loved helping the underdog -- he was the small operator's biggest supporter. Neel was also known for his creativity, introducing new concepts to bulk vending vendors."

He is survived by his son, David; sister Donna (Jonas) Maciulis; nieces Jean (Kevin) Walters and Kelly Bresnahan; and great niece and nephew, Allison and Collin. He is predeceased by another son, Michael, and parents Judge and Beatrice.

Visitation is scheduled for Wednesday, 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Belmont Funeral Home, 7120 W. Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60634; tel. (773) 286-2500. Interment will take place at Lewisburg Cemetery in Lewisburg, KY.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Greater Illinois National Multiple Sclerosis Society.