Steve Clawson, longtime Phoenix radio journalist, has died: 'Lucky to have known him'

Bill Goodykoontz, Arizona Republic
·2 min read

Steve Clawson, a staple of Valley radio for more than three decades, has died. He was 64.

Skyview Networks, where Clawson worked as managing editor and anchor, announced his death on May 18.

“In addition to being an outstanding broadcaster and journalist, Steve was a wonderful person, with a kind word and a smile for everyone he encountered,” Jeff Scott, the vice president for news at Skyview Networks, said in a statement.

“I feel incredibly lucky to have known him for more than three decades, and for having worked alongside him at KTAR, KSAZ, and for the past several years at Skyview Networks. Please keep Steve in your thoughts and know that we will do our very best to carry on his tradition of excellence and service.”

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Clawson was twice named Arizona AP Radio Reporter of the Year

Clawson came to the Valley 34 years ago from radio station WTRX in Flint, Michigan. He worked for radio stations KTAR and KFYI, as well as TV station KSAZ, now known as Fox 10. He was also a producer at KAET, the public TV station now known as Arizona PBS.

Clawson twice won Arizona AP Radio Reporter of the Year while working at KTAR. Valley media was more expansive during Clawson's stint there, with more resources for travel. While at KTAR, Clawson covered the 1992 Los Angeles riots, the Northridge earthquake, the Oklahoma City bombing and the O.J. Simpson murder trial, among other big stories.

He joined Skyview Networks in 2018 and recently conducted an interview with Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs.

A statement from Skyview Networks puts it well for those who knew Clawson: “His esteemed career and reputation was built on his trustworthiness, work ethic, passion and always upbeat personality.”

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Reach Goodykoontz at bill.goodykoontz@arizonarepublic.com. Facebook: facebook.com/GoodyOnFilm. Twitter: @goodyk.

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Phoenix Skyview Networks radio reporter Steve Clawson has died