Steven Illum

Steven Francis Illum, age 78, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his son's home in San Diego, California on Tuesday, January 2, 2024.
Steven was born on September 25, 1945, in Oakland, California to Francis and Jane Illum. He was a graduate of Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah and Texas A&M in College Station, TX where he was awarded a Doctorate of Philosophy in 1979.
Steven was passionate about his as work as Professor of Recreation, Park, and Tourism Studies at Missouri State University. He taught university students for 40 years and was the author of numerous books and academic articles.
He was passionate about gardening and genealogy. He began searching his family history as a teenager.
Steven served as an LDS church building missionary in Utah. He cherished his opportunity to raise his children and serve others. Steven is truly an example of great faith and is loved by many. His sense of humor brightened our lives.
Steven is survived by his wife, Eileen Illum; children, Thann Illum, Maren Illum, Benjamin Illum, Jon Illum, Nate Illum and Justin Illum; siblings, Celia Bowen, Gordon Clausen, Bryan Clausen, Susan Brown, and Kate Pobol Illum; and extended family.
Visitation to be held at 11:30 AM on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4450 S. Farm Road 141, Springfield, Missouri. Funeral services to be held at 1:00 PM with Brother Colby Carey officiating.
Interment will take place at Maple Park Cemetery, Springfield, Missouri following the service at 2:30 PM.
Care has been entrusted to Walnut Lawn Funeral Home DeGraffenreid-Wood Crematory.