Cleo J. Buchholz, 74
Published on February 3, 2025 at 11:35am CST
Cleo Jeanette Buchholz, of Monticello, and formerly of Plymouth, died peacefully on Jan. 21, 2025, at the age of 74, in Monticello, at Willows Landing Assisted Living.
A graveside memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 17, at Glenwood Cemetery in Glenwood, with lunch to follow at the Glenhaven Building in Barsness Park. Arrangements are with Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home of Glenwood.
Born on Aug. 22, 1950, in Glenwood, Cleo was the cherished daughter of Russell and Clarice (Rittgers) Buchholz. Raised in the town of her birth, Cleo was a proud graduate of Glenwood High School, class of 1968. Her pursuit of knowledge and skill led her to Willmar Area Vocational Technical Institute, where she completed the secretarial program in 1969. This foundation paved the way for a fulfilling career with United Health Care, where she dedicated many years of service as a secretary. Cleo’s professionalism and dedication to her work were matched only by her commitment to her faith and community.
A devout born-again Christian, Cleo was raised in the Methodist tradition and found spiritual nourishment at Living Word Christian Center in Brooklyn Park. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and interactions with a gentle grace that was unmistakable to those around her.
Cleo’s interests and hobbies were a reflection of her vibrant spirit and love for life. An avid reader, she frequented the library, always eager to explore new worlds and ideas within the pages of a book. Her creative talents shone through in her sewing and crafts. A regular at the YMCA, she believed in the importance of staying active and engaged with her community.
A lover of cats, Cleo’s home was never without the companionship of a feline friend, each one cherished and adored. Her love for animals was a mirror of her own gentle nature.
Cleo is survived by her brother, Paul (Sandra) Buchholz; her nephew, Eric Buchholz; her nieces, Cassandra (Jes) Gibbons and Melissa (Joe) Garcia; and her great-niece and great-nephew, Amelia and Thane Gibbons.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Russell and Clarice Buchholz; and her brother, Dwight.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society in memory of Cleo.
To send online condolences to Cleo’s family visit hoplinfuneralhome.com and click on obituaries.