Cleo Ann Johnson passed away December 10th, 2025, at West River Health Services in Hettinger, ND.

Cleo was born to Bud and Elva Bailly in Park Rapids, Minnesota on September 11th, 1941. She grew up in Park Rapids with her two brothers, Larry and Carl. As Cleo was growing up she loved learning new things and developed an interest in music. She learned to play the accordion, organ, and piano.

In the fall of 1959, she was introduced to a Naval Sailor, Bob Johnson. On December 24th, 1959, they married, and she started her life as a military wife. Being a military wife is not easy, but her love for her husband, family, and country helped her become the best.

Cleo and Bob had three children. Anthony was born first, but sadly he passed at four months. Her daughter, Mary, and son, Sam, joined later. Anybody who has children knows how difficult it can be to travel. Cleo traveled to many different states, setting up residency in Virginia, Oregon, California, Montana, and even two other countries, Canada and Australia.

Cleo loved her family very much and took great pride in taking care of them. She loved sewing, cooking, crossword puzzles, thrifting, and just being a mom and wife.

In April of 1976, Bob retired from the military and the family moved to Missoula, Montana. Cleo found employment at the University of Montana and was employed for 30 years. She earned the respect and admiration of her coworkers and University Administrators, not to mention the students and community. She always had a humble heart and didn't want the attention. During her spare time she enjoyed activities with her family. Weekends found her shooting, camping, hunting, and exploring Montana's outdoors.

In 2007, Bob and Cleo moved to Lemmon, South Dakota. They found they could enjoy some of the same things that Montana had to offer. Over the years they developed many special friendships, many of whom provided support after the loss of her husband, Bob, in 2019 and continue to this day.

Cleo was an amazing woman, wife, mom, and friend. She touched so many lives with her caring heart. Words can't begin to say how much she will be missed by all. We love you, Mom. Thank you for all you've done.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.