Cletus Lawrence Von Tersch

He graduated as valedictorian from Ferdinand High School in 1955, and attended the University of Idaho in Moscow, graduating with a Bachelors of Science in Agriculture. While at the University of Idaho he co-founded the Farmhouse Fraternity and participated on the Gymnastics team for the school.

He belonged to the Reserve Officers Training Corps and served three years in the United States Air Force following his commission upon graduation, stationed in Kansas City, Missouri; Oxnard, California; and Greenland.

Cletus worked for Travelers Insurance for 30 years making Agricultural loans, living in Washington, Oregon and California. He continued in this field for an additional 10 years for Union Bank of California.

He loved the outdoors, including camping, hiking and snow skiing. He also enjoyed volunteering for Habitat for Humanity and Catholic Charities. He attended Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Fresno regularly with his wife, Carol.

Cletus is survived by his wife of 59 years, Carol, his sons Glenn (Esther), Brian and Keith (Matthew) as well as grandchildren Rebecca and Daniel, and three sisters Marlene, Eileen and Diane. He was preceded in his passing by his parents; his two brothers, Jordan and Clarence; and his seven sisters, Leona, Louise, Dorothy, Rose, Bernice, Jean and Betty. He was a devoted family man who proudly attended birthday parties, graduations, weddings, school and sporting events of his children, grandchildren and extended family.

The Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, at 355 E Champlain Drive in Fresno, with the Rosary beginning at 9:30 AM followed by mass at 10:00 AM and a reception to follow at the Church Hall. Interment will occur Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at 11:00 AM at St Peter's Cemetery, at 264 North Blythe Ave in Fresno.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Moffett and his staff for their kind and welcoming care for Cletus.