Clayton Johnson

Clayton Amund Johnson, 86, of McLeod, North Dakota, passed away peacefully on Friday morning, October 17, 2025.

Born on March 7, 1939, in Breckenridge, Minnesota, Clayton was the son of Andrew and Dena Johnson. In 1957, he graduated from Wyndmere High School, where he earned statewide recognition as the youngest pitcher to lead his team to victory in the North Dakota state baseball championship.

Clayton earned a baseball scholarship to the University of North Dakota, where he completed his Bachelor's degree in Physical Education in 1961. He later obtained dual Master's degrees in Counseling and Physical Education, laying the foundation for a lifelong commitment to youth development.

He began his teaching career in Fosston, Minnesota, where he taught Physical Education until 1966. He then moved to Crookston, Minnesota, where he counseled students and began laying the groundwork for vocational education programs. From the early 1990s until his retirement, Clayton's commitment to vocational education continued in Ransom and Sargent Counties, North Dakota, where he guided students to pursue meaningful careers.

Clayton lived a life full of humor and adventure. A lifelong baseball enthusiast and spirited golfer (famous among friends for his legendary club tosses) he brought energy and laughter to every game. He was a master of Dummy Rummy, an enthusiastic traveler, and had an enduring fondness for lemon cake. Clayton drew profound joy from the grasslands surrounding McLeod, a place he proudly called home for most of his life. His deep connection to the community extended to his active role in the McLeod Historical Preservation Society, where he helped to establish and preserve the McLeod Museum.

A proud Shriner and community advocate, Clayton was the heart behind McLeod's beloved Fourth of July parade. What started as a modest celebration with just three floats expanded into a community tradition featuring over 150 entries. For many years, Clayton led the parade himself, perched proudly atop his restored tractor.

Above all, Clayton was a family man. Clayton's face would light up in the presence of his grandchildren, his joy unmistakable and contagious. He left behind a legacy of warmth, laughter, and a gentle spirit that touched everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Clayton is survived by his beloved wife of 36 years, Alice; his children: Chad Stefonowicz, Jeffrey Johnson, Martha Nash, Chandra Stefonowicz, Andrea Melroe (Mike), and Travis Stefonowicz (Emily); and eleven grandchildren: Dusty Nash, Tori Deer (Billy), Andrew Melroe, Zachary Melroe (Sage), Jessica Stefonowicz, Baily Nash, Skyler Stefonowicz, Taylor Stefonowicz, Ian Stefonowicz, Jaxon Stefonowicz, and Brooklyn Stefonowicz.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Dena; his sister, Linda; and his brother, David.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025 from 2-4 p.m. at the Silver Prairie Saloon in McLeod.