Cleo Ann Eliason, age 90, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2026 in Green Bay Wisconsin. She was born December 1, 1935, in Green Bay, to Edwin and Helen (Klug) Eliason. Cleo was proud to be a lifelong Lutheran.
She graduated with High Honors from Green Bay East High School in 1954. She worked as a secretary at Morning Glory Dairy for 8 years, then as a Parish Secretary at Trinity Lutheran Church. She later worked at Curative Workshop. Cleo attended Wartburg College in Waverly Iowa, where she earned her Dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Religion and Psychology in 1965. In 1968 she decided to complete her education, went to Milwaukee in 1970 and received a master’s degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee in 1972. She relocated to Madison about that time and went to work for the State of Wisconsin eventually rising to the position of Director of Workforce Development. She also held various positions in Wisconsin Easter Seals. Cleo was instrumental in developing the Wisconsin ADA requirements for access to buildings and rooms in the State.
Cleo’s dedication and resolve led to numerous accomplishments and awards, such as from: Great Lakes Region NRA, Wisconsin Council on Physical Disabilities, Community Service Awards, The Equal Rights Council, Victory, Award from the National Rehab Council, Wisconsin Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, and Curative Workshop Rehab Award, Wisconsin Elkins Counselor Award.
When she wasn’t hard at work, Cleo enjoyed shopping, knitting and crocheting, and spending time with her lovely cats.
She is survived by her nephews, Dennis (Liz) Oberer, Paul Oberer; her nieces, Sandra DuChateau, Linda (Denis) Noel, Mary Oberer (Patrick Nee); her many grand and great grand nieces and nephews, and her cherished cat, Summer.
Cleo was preceded in death by her parents, and sisters, Lois Oberer, and Elaine Baumgart; her nephew, James Baumgart; and her beloved cats, Buddy, Tigger, and Ellie.
All obituary information has been taken from the funeral home, newspaper or other online resource.
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