Just weeks after he turned 100, residents of Bell Island are mourning the passing of a legendary and well-respected local businessman.

Leonard Clarke was the owner and operator of Clarke and Clarke Home Hardware on Bell Island.

In 2012, he was on hand for the ribbon-cutting of a new state-of-the-art retail location, investing millions in the local Home Hardware location.

MHA David Brazil is among the many people who worked for Clarke over the years, developing a great respect for the business leader.

He says Clarke was a community man who was well-liked. Brazil says he left a legacy in his community and surrounding areas.

Clarke, who celebrated his 100th birthday earlier this month, is being remembered as community philanthropist and gentleman.