Louise Marie Clayton (Pich), born September 20, 1948, in Lankin, ND, to Dorine (Hodny) and Roger Pich, passed away peacefully at home in Grand Forks, ND on October 22, 2024.
Louise attended Washington, Wilder, Belmont, and Winship elementary schools before entering Central High School where she graduated in1967.
After working as a cook at The Mexican Village, she dedicated 33 years to the University of North Dakota (UND), primarily in dining services and custodial roles, retiring in 2013. Even after retirement, she continued to periodically work as a “pretend patient” for the UND School of Medicine and Health Sciences, helping to educate future healthcare professionals.
In addition to her work, Louise found joy in decorating for every holiday, ensuring that her home reflected the changing seasons and celebrations. She enjoyed working outdoors, was an avid gardener, baker, and cook. She loved canning her homegrown vegetables, cooking favorite meals, and baking her favorite sweet treats to share with family and friends. She also enjoyed sewing, crocheting, painting, and crafting.
Louise was a loving wife, sister, parent, and grandparent and greatly enjoyed spending time with friends and loved ones. On December 27, 1975, she married Lyle Dale Clayton, they were married nearly 35 years until his passing on February 26, 2010.
Louise will be remembered for her unwavering kindness, creativity, and dedication to helping others.
An informal celebration of life will take place at a later date (please contact lyndsychavarria@gmail.com for info). If you wish to make a donation in her name, they can be made in memory of Louise to the UND School of Medicine & Health Sciences through the UND Alumni Association & Foundation. You may choose to donate to the general “Annual Excellence Fund” or to another designation of your choosing. https://undalumni.org/giving-impact/colleges-programs/medicine-health-sciences.html.