Leo Lucas Johs, a respected figure in his community, passed away on October 29, 2025, at CHI St. Alexius Health in Bismarck, North Dakota. Born on a farm southeast of Napoleon, North Dakota, on October 18, 1932, he was the son of Sebastian and Elizabeth (Wagner) Johs. Leo’s early life was spent on a farm in Burnstad, North Dakota, where he was raised alongside his siblings.
In 1953, Leo was drafted into the United States Army, serving for two years during the Korean conflict. Upon completing his military service, he pursued higher education at Bismarck Junior College before transferring to the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks. He graduated with a degree in accounting in 1959, marking the beginning of a successful career.
Leo started his professional journey at the North Dakota Farmers Union in Jamestown. He later worked with the State of North Dakota Auditor’s Office in Bismarck for two years. The majority of his career was dedicated to Farmers Union Insurance in Jamestown, where he made significant contributions to the organization. His commitment to community service was evident through his involvement with the Jamestown Community Credit Union, where he served on the Supervisory Committee and Board of Directors for nearly three decades.
On February 7, 1959, Leo married Lillian Hellman. Together, they raised four children: Scott, Bruce, Nancy, and Rich, all in Jamestown. The couple enjoyed a fulfilling retirement in Mesa, Arizona, where they embraced activities such as golfing, bridge, ballroom dancing, and building lasting friendships. In 2022, they relocated back to Bismarck.
Leo is survived by his beloved wife, Lillian; their sons, Scott and Bruce (both residing in Scottsdale, Arizona), Rich (West Burlington, Iowa); and daughter, Nancy Neff (Sioux Falls, South Dakota). His family also includes a sister, Mary Ann Leier (Valley City, North Dakota); a brother, Edward Johs (Fargo, North Dakota); seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Lillian Scherr and Pauline Fettig, brother Anton Johs, and daughter-in-law Kimberly Johs.
A Mass of Christian burial will take place on November 3, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, located at 1919 N 2nd St, Bismarck. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the Mass. Following the service, burial will occur at 1:00 PM at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Mandan.
Family and friends are invited to sign the online guestbook and share memories of Leo at www.eastgatefuneral.com. Leo Johs will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his unwavering dedication to family and community.