A former Bismarck lawmaker has passed.

Audrey Cleary — who served in the State House between 1991 and 97 and again from 1999 to 2003 passed away Tuesday. 

She was born in Michigan but has lived in Bismarck since 1955. 

She and her husband Joe had 11 kids together and she is survived by 32 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

For the 59 years she lived in Bismarck, Audrey was very involved in the community, especially the Light of Christ Catholic Schools. 

She helped serve dinner on the Friday of the St. Mary’s carnival for 33 years. 

Tonight there is a visitation and reading of the rosary service at the UMary Chapel. 

A funeral mass is Saturday, February 9th at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Bismarck followed by a graveside service. 

The North Dakota Democratic Party issued the following statement about her passing:

The Democratic Nonpartisan League lost one of its unwavering leaders this week, Audrey Cleary. She packed a lifetime of dedication in her 88 years of life, as a wife, a mother, a grandmother, and a progressive Dem-NPL legislator. Her work representing Bismarck in the North Dakota House of Representatives for nearly 10 years was exemplified by her tireless efforts for the future of children, the plight of public employees, and issues surrounding mental health.

Bruce Hagen, Public Service Commissioner from 1961-2000, said: “She was a model legislator who cared about how people were treated, and really listened when people voiced concerns.” Former Labor Commissioner, Insurance Commissioner and House member Byron Knutson reflected, “She would be proud to know that the same issues she worked so hard on are still our hallmarks today.” Warren Larson added, “Clearly, she left a legacy and challenge for all of us to follow and emulate.”

To read the full obituary, CLICK HERE.