Steven P Clausen

Steven P Clausen, age 68, of Loves Park, Illinois passed away on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. He was born June 13, 1957 to John H. and Joan C. (Johnson) Clausen in Spring Valley, Illinois. He attended Princeton, Illinois schools K-11 but moved with his family to Machesney Park, where he graduated in 1975 from Harlem High School. His heart was always with the PHS class of 1975.

Steve proudly served in the US Navy for 20 years (1975 - 1995) as an Aviation Boatswain's Mate. He served aboard the aircraft carriers; USS Saratoga, USS Franklin Roosevelt, USS Nimitz CVN-68. He was stationed at NS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, NAS Meridian, MS, NAS El Centro, CA, Bremerton, WA, and with Naval Patrol Squadron 22 at NAS Barber’s Point, HI. His career took him around the world. His cheerful nature gathered many friends both in and out of the Navy. He was very proud to be an American Naval Veteran.

After retiring he returned to Loves Park, Illinois. He worked as a school bus driver and dispatcher for 15 years in the Rockton area. Steve enjoyed taking drives through the countryside and going sightseeing. He loved to spend time with his many nieces and nephews. Steve will especially be missed for his quirky, dry sense of humor.

Steve is survived by his siblings, Christine Clausen of Arkansas Pass, TX, Jacque (Don) Bauer of Mendota, IL, Peter (Jan Cusac) Clausen of Peoria, IL, Michael Clausen of Jacksonville, FL, Karen (Van) Osuga of Rockford, IL, James Clausen of St. Paul, MN, and Jeffrey (Beth) Clausen of Roscoe, IL; 22 nieces and nephews; 46 great-nieces and nephews; and 7 great-great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John H. (1999) and Joan C. Clausen (2016); brothers, Richard Joseph (1965) and John Andrew Clausen (2012).

A memorial visitation for Steven will be held Saturday, April 18 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N Alpine Rd, Machesney Park, IL 61115 with a service to follow at 2:00 pm. He will be laid to rest by burial at sea.

Fair winds and following seas - Steve