Mikelann Caywood-Baerg

We are sad to announce the passing of Mikelann Caywood-Baerg of Livingston, Montana. She died Monday night after a brave battle with cancer. She was 73 years old. A memorial service in honor of her bold, beautiful life will be held on January 20th at The Shane Performing Arts Center Ballroom at 2pm. We invite everyone who loved her to bring a story to share.

Mikelann was born to Dorothy and Albert Caywood in Lincoln Nebraska on April 4^th, 1950. She grew up in Ardmore, Oklahoma, married Lee Whittlesey and came out to Yellowstone National Park after graduating with a Journalism degree from the University of Oklahoma.  For several years, she oversaw the Travel and Information desks in Yellowstone Park.  She went back to school and found her passion as a nurse.  After working at Lake Hospital and a divorce, she continued her education, becoming a Certified/Nurse Midwife at the University of Arizona.  She went on to deliver nearly 1,400 babies in Park and Gallatin County, including starting the Bozeman Birth Center.  Needing something to occupy her while waiting for babies, she took up hand quilting.  She loved finishing a beautiful quilt and giving it to someone she loved.

In 1985 Mikelann married her red headed carpenter, Rich and together they somehow produced a most wonderful person, Cassidy.  

Mikelann loved the mountains, especially Yellowstone Park.  And water, how she loved the lakes and rivers.  She could reliably be found most months of the year sitting under her favorite tree on the Shields River near her home NE of Livingston or in her kitchen baking something delicious.

She is survived by her husband Rich Baerg and her daughter Cassidy Baerg, as well as her cat, Piper, and dog Gus and her sourdough starter. She is also survived by numerous cousins. She was predeceased by her parents and her younger sister Jerry-Lynn Caywood. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends. We wish her safe travels for her journey beyond this life and into the next. 

Memorials may be sent to the Stafford Animal Shelter, Montana Planned Parenthood, or a charity of your choice. 

Please check back for service details.

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