Obituaries

Remembering Chick Stessman: A Legacy of Education and Basketball

Harlan native Chick Stessman, who touched countless lives through education and basketball, passed away peacefully at 85. From coaching at Liberty High School to founding a beloved basketball tournament, his legacy endures. Read more about his remarkable journey.

Zach Hammer

May 9, 2025 — 1 min read

Clarence W. “Chick” Stessman, an 85-year-old Harlan native, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2025, in Jefferson City, MO. Born in Harlan in 1939, he was the youngest of five children and attended college on a basketball scholarship.

Chick dedicated much of his life to education and coaching. He earned a degree in Education from Peru State Teacher’s College and enjoyed a successful coaching career at several schools, notably Liberty High School, where he laid the groundwork for a famous basketball program.

A beloved educator, Chick served as Assistant Principal and was known for innovative programs and support of student activities. He also founded the “CW Stessman Invitational” tournament, a hallmark of local high school basketball.

Chick was passionate beyond education, loving travel, music, and family traditions. He hosted annual family gatherings and was deeply committed to celebrating milestones with his loved ones.

His family will hold a private Celebration of Life, with memorial contributions suggested to the Liberty Education Foundation. For further details about Chick's remarkable life, check out the full article.

For more information, visit the original article: https://www.mycouriertribune.com/clarence-stessman/

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