Susan Alva Clavier

Susan Alva Clavier, age 77, passed away surrounded by the love and comfort of her family. Born on February 28, 1948—or, as she proudly reminded everyone, a leap-year baby—Susan loved to joke that she was “19 going on 20,” forever younger than all her children. Her sense of humor and lighthearted spirit were just a few of the many gifts she shared throughout her life. Susan was the beloved wife of the late Darroll Jay Clavier, with whom she shared 42 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they built a life grounded in love, loyalty, and supporting one another through every joy and challenge. Their marriage was a true partnership, and the deep bond they shared continues to echo in the hearts of their family. A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Susan, found her greatest happiness in time spent with the people she loved. She had a natural way of making others feel seen and treasured, and her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the comforting feeling of belonging. Susan enjoyed many creative and relaxing pastimes. She loved listening to murder mysteries on the radio, and she poured patience and love into crocheting—crafting blankets and gifts that her family will hold dear for generations. Bowling nights, time spent with friends, and family gatherings brought her joy and energy. She also loved settling in to watch BritBox, especially her favorite series “Death in Paradise,” which she rarely missed. One of her most cherished traditions was making homemade fruit cake from scratch in a jar. She always kept the jar on the counter, stirring in new ingredients each day until the mixture was finally ready to bake. Those fruit cakes became a delicious tradition and a sweet reminder of her love, patience, and quiet artistry in the kitchen. Another treasured memory in Susan’s life was being taken to see the Broadway production of Cats. She was captivated by the music and magic of the show and held that experience close to her heart. She often reminisced about how special that night had been. Susan is survived by her three daughters, Felda Ong, Doris Kelly (and husband Jim), and Lisa Clavier; and her son-in-law Ray Korba. She was blessed with 12 grandchildren: James Kelly (and wife Amanda), Michael Korba (and wife Lisa), Phylicia Barth (and husband James), Joseph Medina, Alyssa Callison (and husband Jeremy), Vicki Kelly, Jorge Medina (and wife Danielle), Cody Hendershott, Andera Pluimer (and husband Colton), Zachary Korba (and wife Pam), Trevor Medina (and wife Amber), and Jesse Medina (and wife Melissa). She also leaves behind 22 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild, all of whom brought her immeasurable pride and happiness. As we mourn the loss of Susan, we take comfort in knowing she is reunited in Heaven with her beloved husband, Darroll, and the family who awaited her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Clara Willhite; her siblings Patricia Crow, Leo Willhite, and Wesley Willhite; her daughter Paula Korba; her great-granddaughter Nora Barth; her nephew Darroll Clavier; her niece Dawn Clavier; and her beloved dog, Mia. A graveside service will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Historic Maplewood Cemetery, 347 Maple Lane, Crown Point, IN. The procession will begin lining up at 10:30 a.m. from Burns Funeral Home & Crematory, 10101 Broadway, Crown Point, IN. Both Darroll and Susan will be laid to rest together reunited in peace and love. www.burnsfuneral.com

Susan Alva Clavier

February 28, 1948 - February 4, 2026