Christine Elizabeth Tessler

The world lost a devoted USC fan in the passing of our beloved Christine Elizabeth Cornwell Tessler. She was known for her optimism and never-ending cheerfulness, singing “Rise and Shine and give God your Glory Glory” every morning to wake up her kids. She had many a pillow tossed at her!

Christine was born on January 4 in Glendale, and raised in La Canada CA. She went home to be with Jesus on August 15, 2024.

She attended Fresno State University, where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in social science. She made the Dean’s list numerous times. Rather than move back to La Canada, Christine remained in Fresno where she eventually convinced everyone in her family to make the move to Central California.

Christine began her teaching career at Clovis Unified and stayed with the district for 37 years before retiring. She taught at both Kastner and Alta Sierra Middle School and was a member of the original staff of teachers at the opening of Buchanan High School. Throughout her 37 years, Christine touched the lives of over 5000 students. Many of her students have gone on to become teachers due to Christine’s devotion and energy given every day in every class she taught. Christine never took a day off when it came to giving her very best in the classroom. For her efforts, Christine was given the award of “Teacher of the Year” along with receiving the prestigious “Yearbook Dedication” in 2014.

Christine’s dedication to her teaching didn’t end in the classroom. During her years at Buchanan, she became involved in many activities. This included establishing and working tirelessly at the Buchanan Clothes-Closet. Helping to start the Matt Mueller Memorial Blood Drive. Class Advisor to numerous classes throughout the years. Advisor to the Junior Larcs. School Bowling Advisor, even though she considered her bowling skills to be limited.

Her two greatest joys in life were watching her children grow up and becoming her husband’s biggest supporter as she watched him coach the Women’s Basketball teams at Reedley and Fresno City College. She was an avid sports fan. She took her devotion toward USC athletics very seriously. She was very proud of the USC room she decorated at her house. Christine recently took up golf and became a member at Copper River Country Club. She made her husband both proud and envious at how quickly she developed a beautiful swing.

Christine is survived by her husband Brian Tessler, her children Sara Shumaker and Jack Shumaker, parents Ken and Ruth Cornwell, sister Carol Bentz, nephew Paul Bentz and his wife Kristen. She was preceded in death by her sister Susan Miller.

The family is planning a Celebration of Life on Saturday, September 21st, 2024, at 11am at Clovis Hills Church located at 759 E. International Ave, Clovis CA 93619

Chrissy would want us all to remember to mind our Safety, Rules, Manners, and Morals.

IN LIEU OF SENDING FLOWERS, CHRISTINE WOULD LIKE YOU TO MAKE A DONATION TO THE POVERELLO HOUSE, P.O. Box 12225, FRESNO, CA 93777-2225.