Pawnee — Steven Edward Clauser, 65, of Pawnee, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, at Springfield Memorial Hospital after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Steve was born Sept. 21, 1960, in East St. Louis, the son of James E. and Virginia L. Walbert Clauser. He married Michelle L. Lucas on Sept. 2, 2017, in Pawnee. He was preceded in death by his father, James, and his stepmother, Judith Clauser.

Steve graduated from Pawnee High School in 1979 and joined his father in his company, Crown Trucking Inc., which originated in 1945. Steve eventually took over Crown Trucking, which serves Central Illinois and surrounding areas proudly to this day. Crown Trucking's success, growth and longevity stand as a testament to his hard work and love for the industry.

Steve never met a stranger and knew someone everywhere he went. He was a master storyteller and enjoyed telling those stories over and over again. He will be missed greatly by all who knew and loved him.

Steve is survived by his wife, Michelle Clauser, his mother, Virginia List, one daughter, Samantha (Landon) Cain, and one brother, Jim Clauser, all of Pawnee; one sister, Cynthia Clauser, of Sacramento, California; two grandchildren, Staley and Cutter Cain; four stepchildren, Julie Cox, Brad Cox, Jenny Thornley and Sydney Schober; and several step-grandchildren.

In accordance with Steve's wishes, he will be cremated. A celebration of life will be held from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, at 13189 Cotton Hill Road in Pawnee.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Curry Funeral Home in Pawnee is honored to serve the family of Steve Clauser. Online condolences may be shared at www.curryfh.com.