Clayton Hjelle, 78 of Newfolden, MN passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 6, 2019 at Sanford Hospital in Fargo, ND.

A gathering time for family and friends will be held from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Tuesday, March 12, 2019 at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, MN. Military honors will be held at 6:30 PM by the Otto Knutson Post 427 and Minnesota Army National Guard Honor Guard. Burial will be at Westaker Cemetery near Newfolden, MN in the spring.

Clayton Orris Hjelle was born on June 22, 1940 to Hjalmer and Hannah (Hanson) Hjelle.  He was baptized into the Lutheran faith.  He attended school in Newfolden, MN where he was an excellent athlete.

Clayton served in the United States Army as a paratrooper.  He was stationed in Japan for part of his military service and was Honorably Discharged.

In 1967, Clayton was united in marriage to Joan Delores O'Brien and they made their home near Newfolden.

Clayton was a successful businessman.  He owned and operated Hjelle Roofing for over 40 years.

Clayton was a member of the Otto Knutson American Legion Post 427.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, traveling, coin collecting, and building many friendships through his business throughout the years.

Survivors include his wife, Joan; children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren; siblings Hilton (Ruby), James (Betty), Linda (Dennis) and Grace; sister-in-law, Gwennie; as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Clarice (Carl) Hjelle; and brother, Kenneth.