Thomas L. Claussen, 81, of Wood River passed away Saturday, January 2, 2021at Alton Memorial Hospital.  He was born October 27, 1939 in Bethalto to Richard L. and Harriett (Wulf) Claussen.  He married Dorothy Hamor September 6, 1966 in Meadowbrook.   Thomas served his country in the United States Army. He also worked as a machine operator for Wood River General Machine Works until his retirement. In his free time he enjoyed fishing, concerts and baseball and hockey games.  He loved spending time with friends and family.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Dorothy Claussen of Wood River; son, Michael Claussen of Wood River; daughters, Kathy (Mark) Chaney of Merritt Island, FL and Christine Walkenhorst of Bethalto; four grandchildren, David Hamilton, Phillip Hamilton, Brittany Lopez and Tarran Albert; seven great grandchildren; brother, Neil Claussen of Carbondale; sister, Verda Jones of Bethalto and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and several close friends.

Due to the Covid 19 restrictions private services will be held with burial at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.  Professional services entrusted to Paynic Home for Funerals in Rosewood Heights.  In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to Shriners Hospital for Children.  Online guestbook available at www.paynicfh.com