Saul Marvin Mendelsohn

Saul Mendelsohn, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and respected member of the Visalia and Fresno communities, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026, at the age of 88. Born in Detroit, Michigan, Saul lived a life marked by integrity, curiosity, and an unwavering dedication to both his family and his profession. As an optometrist for 54 years, he was more than a skilled doctor, he was a teacher at heart. He believed in helping people see clearly, not only through the lenses he carefully adjusted, but through the guidance and wisdom he generously shared. Known for his wisdom, sharp intellect, old-school work ethic, and practical approach to problem-solving, Saul earned the trust and respect of patients and colleagues alike.

Over the years, he cared for entire families, often examining three generations, grandmother, mother, and granddaughter, watching them grow up through the lens of his exam chair. The loyalty of those families was a testament not only to his skill, but to the relationships he built with each patient.

Saul approached life with determination and purpose. He believed that if something needed to be done, you simply did it. He valued hard work, lifelong learning, and personal responsibility, continuing his education well into his later years. He had a keen eye not only for vision care, but also for opportunity, he enjoyed buying and managing properties, searching for a good bargain, and attending auctions. Whatever he pursued, he did with focus and intention.

At home, Saul was a devoted husband. He shared a loving and enduring partnership with his wife, Ruth, built on mutual respect, loyalty, humor, and deep care. In their later years, his steadfast devotion to her reflected the quiet strength and constancy that defined his character.

He was a proud father and grandfather who believed in teaching through action. He trusted his children with responsibility, encouraged them to ask questions, and reminded them that mistakes were simply part of learning. He often said, “If you say you can, or if you say you can’t, you’re absolutely right,” instilling confidence and resilience in those he loved. Though a man of few words, his reassurance often came in subtle gestures, a listening ear, steady guidance, or a quiet moment of shared understanding.

Saul is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth; her daughters, Lynn and Cindy; and by Barbara, the mother of his children, Lani, Tami, and Nancy, who will forever carry forward his lessons of perseverance, faith, and devotion to family. He was a proud and loving grandfather whose encouragement and presence will be deeply missed.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers, friends, and community members who supported Saul and Ruth with compassion and kindness in recent years.

A memorial service will be held on February 17 at 11:00 a.m. at Beth Israel Cemetery, located on the 1600 block of West Belmont Avenue in Fresno. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Saul’s legacy lives on in the lives he shaped, the clarity he brought to others, both literally and figuratively, and the enduring values he instilled: work hard, keep learning, take care of your family, and help others see clearly. He will be remembered with love and gratitude.