Christopher J. Crusen, a dedicated resident of Peoria, Illinois, passed away on December 13, 2025, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center at the age of 61, concluding a life marked by professional commitment and profound familial devotion.
Born on December 24, 1963, in Peoria to Donald E. and Joani “Mimi” Needham Crusen, he grew up in a large, family that instilled values of loyalty and support. The Peoria community reflects on the enduring impact of a man whose presence as a best friend and father figure enriched countless relationships.
Crusen’s educational journey began at St. Mark’s Grade School and continued through Spalding Institute before culminating in a degree from Eastern Illinois University, a milestone that filled his parents with pride as the family’s first college graduate. This achievement laid the foundation for a stable career, spending over 34 years at LexisNexis in roles involving client services and operations management until his retirement in 2024.
In his leisure time, Crusen embraced simple yet fulfilling pursuits, finding joy in traveling to new destinations and immersing himself in music that provided relaxation and inspiration. These hobbies reflected a balanced lifestyle, allowing moments of personal rejuvenation amid his commitments to work and family in central Illinois.
Central to Crusen’s existence was his unwavering devotion to family, serving as a cherished brother to Tom (Helen), Dan, Lyn (Mark) Suits, Jan (Rich) Kreher, and Molly (Doug) Bishop, along with sisters-in-law Terri and Trish Crusen. He formed deep bonds with 25 nieces and nephews, often acting as a guiding father figure whose encouragement shaped their growth, alongside numerous grand nieces and nephews who benefited from his affectionate presence. Preceded by parents and brothers Donald “Duck,” Steven, Dave, and nephew Joshua Suits, his relational focus created lasting familial harmony.
Cremation rites have been accorded, with private family services followed by a public celebration of life on January 24, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Crusens on War Drive, inviting all to share memories in a venue tied to local traditions. This gathering underscores the community’s desire to honor his impactful role in Peoria’s social and familial networks.
Christopher J. Crusen lived a life well lived, distinguished by educational achievement at Eastern Illinois University, long-term dedication at LexisNexis, passions for travel and music, and profound family devotion in Peoria, Illinois. His legacy endures through the strengthened bonds he nurtured among siblings, extended relatives, and the broader circle who viewed him as a steadfast friend.
REFERENCE: Christopher J. Crusen, 61, of Peoria, Illinois, Has Died