SallyJo Ann Applebee passed away Tuesday September 3, 2024, at Grand Village, Grand Rapids, MN.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Rudy and Jo, her sister Sharon Root and brother David Jarva. She is survived by her daughter Michele (Mark) Leraan, grandson Miles and her grand puppy Django. Her son Corey (Melinda) Applebee, granddaughter Kara, and grandson Kian. Niece Jennifer (Todd) Karjala, nephew Jason Root, great nephews Joey (Krista Sparby) Jarva, Brady Jarva, Annastasia Root, and Cameron Root.  Her special friend and cousin Tamra Swing was by her side until the end.

She was born Sept 9, 1946, in Grand Rapids, MN and was a lifelong resident there. She attended Greenway high school, graduating in 1964. She then attended the ICC LPN program, graduating in 1965.  She worked at Itasca Memorial hospital in the C&NC Unit for almost 20 years. She then became a residential instructor for developmentally disabled adults until her retirement. Sally had enormous compassion for those with disabilities and loved all animals.

SallyJo had a wicked sense of humor and was known for her practical jokes.

She has a special place in the hearts of her great nephews Joey and Brady as she essentially was their grandma their entire lives.

Private family services are planned.  Interment will be in the Union Woodland Cemetery, McGregor, MN.