Dolores "Dee" Vancleeve

Born in Choteau, Montana, Dolores “Dee” Vancleeve lived a life of love, service, and devotion to her family. After graduating high school, Dee joined the Navy WAVES, where she met the love of her life and guardian angel, W.F. “Van” Vancleeve, while they worked together on Treasure Island. They married and raised their family while moving frequently with the Navy, living in Alameda, Guam, and San Diego. After Van retired from the Navy, they settled in Great Falls, Montana, where Dee worked for and retired from the Great Falls School District. In retirement, they moved to Billings, Montana, to be closer to family.

Dee passed away from complications of Parkinson’s disease. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at St. John’s United for nearly 10 years of care. From the retirement community to assisted living and, eventually, nursing care, Dee’s time at St. John’s was filled with kindness and compassion. She particularly cherished the staff at Vista, the assisted living community, whose warmth and dedication brought her joy and comfort.

Dee had a remarkable ability to light up any room she entered and took a sincere interest in everyone she met. Her warmth and kindness made her a friend to all, and she cherished those connections throughout her life.

Dee will be remembered as a beautiful person, inside and out. She took pride in her style and grace, always presenting herself with elegance and charm. Dee had a joyful spirit and loved to laugh, bringing happiness to those around her. Her kind heart, unwavering love, and strength of character touched everyone who knew her.

She is survived by her husband of 69 years, W.F. “Van” Vancleeve; her three children, Rick (Cindy), Melanie (Tony) Woolery, and Sandy (Lisa Walton); her five grandchildren—Brandon (Anna), Colby (Katie), Spencer (Lorenzo) Vancleeve, Carlie Woolery, and Cassie (Jeremy) Todd; and seven great-grandchildren—Harlow, Jack, and Teddy Vancleeve; and Savannah, Henry, Jameson Todd, and Copper Vancleeve. She is also survived by her sister, Janice “Jan” Goodness (Duane, deceased), and her nieces and nephews—Vance Morrison, Shawn Morrison, Scott (Sue) Goodness, and Tracy (Chris) Rice. Dee was preceded in death by her mother, Maud Morrison; her sister, Arlene Morrison (survived by Nick).

A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date to honor Dee’s incredible life and legacy.

Dee’s memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.