Frank J. Klucevsek III

Frank J. Klucevsek III, 77, of Chouteau, passed away peacefully at his home on February 8, 2025. Born on May 22, 1947, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Frank grew up in Tulsa and graduated from Edison High School in 1965. His passion for athletics earned him a scholarship to play baseball and football at Connors State College, where he served as vice president of his freshman class. After graduating from Connors in 1967, he continued his education at Northeastern State University, earning his degree in education in May 1969.

Frank dedicated the early years of his career to shaping young lives as an educator and coach. In 1981, he transitioned to a successful 30-year career with Shelter Insurance, where he remained until his retirement in 2011.

After moving to Chouteau in 1976, Frank was deeply involved in the community. He served as a volunteer firefighter for 20 years, spent 18 years on the town council, and played a key role as coordinator for Chouteau’s annual Cleanup Day. His commitment to the town culminated in May 2017 when he became the mayor of Chouteau. Additionally, he was a longtime leader in the Chouteau High School Athletic Booster Club, where he passionately supported local student-athletes for many years.

Frank was a devoted member of Chouteau United Methodist Church, serving as Chairman of the Board. He also remained connected to his alma mater, Connors State College, where he was a past president of the alumni association and instrumental in raising scholarship funds for future students.

Above all, Frank’s greatest joy was his family. He shared over 56 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Evelyn, whom he met at Connors State College. Their love and dedication built a strong foundation for their family. His legacy continues through his two sons—his eldest, who followed in his footsteps as a firefighter, and his youngest, who serves as an educator and coach. As a grandfather, Frank took immense pride in cheering on the next generation in their athletic endeavors, never missing an opportunity to support them.

Frank’s life revolved around sports, community service, and family. From his days as a player and coach to his tireless support as a booster and proud grandfather, his dedication to others never wavered. His impact on Chouteau and beyond will be felt for generations to come.

Frank is survived by his loving wife, Evelyn Klucevsek of the home; sons, Frank J Klucevsek IV and his wife, Libby, of Claremore, OK, and Adam Klucevsek and his wife, Cheryl, of Chouteau, OK; five grandchildren, Carson, twins, Frank V and Emily, twins, Cale and Cade; his sister, Mary Potts, and her husband, Luther, of Tulsa, OK; as well as many other relatives and dear friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Frank J. Klucevsek, Jr. and Beatrice (Aldridge) Klucevsek.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, February 13, 2025 in the Chouteau First Baptist Church. Burial will follow in the Chouteau West Cemetery with Carson Klucevsek, Frank Klucevsek V, Cale Klucevsek, Cade Klucevsek, Danny Croft, Mark Materna, and Jim Hamric serving as casket bearers. Honorary casket bearers will be Jamie Dover, Bruce Shropshire, Dave Kriebel, Homer “James” Croft, Larry Carter, Don Carter, Stan Sheffield, Duane Parker, Steve Merrill, and David Watts. Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m, Wednesday, February 12, 2025 at Shipman’s Funeral Home in Pryor. To leave his family a message, please visit his Tribute Wall at www.shipmansfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shipman’s Funeral & Cremation Service.