Thottakath Cheeku Cleetus (T.C. Cleetus), 95, passed away on July 5, 2026. Born on February 3, 1931, in the southern state of Kerala in India, he lived a long and healthy life marked by steady devotion to family, a strong work ethic, and a quiet honesty that earned trust and respect.
Cleetus pursued his education with purpose, receiving a bachelor’s degree in history from St. Albert's College in Kochi, Kerala, India—an early reflection of the discipline and determination that would remain with him throughout his life.
Cleetus and Marykutty shared 54 happy years of marriage, a faithful partnership that endured until Marykutty’s death in October 2015. Together they raised three children: Francis, Annie, and James, and his devotion to those he loved remained a defining constant.
In his personal life, Cleetus found enjoyment in simple, lasting pleasures. He was an avid painter and reader and, as a young man, loved to fish. He also took delight in entertainment—especially action movies and Korean television serials—often bringing a gentle humor to everyday moments.
Cleetus’s sense of duty and pride in doing things the right way was evident even in later years. He proudly became a U.S. citizen on 25th July 2023 at the age of 92, and he was especially proud of scoring high on the U.S. naturalization civics test—an achievement that spoke to his persistence and conscientious spirit.
He is survived by his children, Francis Cleetus (Maneesha), Annie Devraj Kanakappan (Devraj), and James Cleetus (Kimberly Hall); his brother, George Thottakath; his sister, Regina Thomas; his granddaughters, Tannya Devraj Christy (Jens), Ananya Cleetus (Osama Esmail), and Antara Cleetus; and his great granddaughter, Kelsey Christy. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Marykutty Cleetus, and his sister, Angelina Velu.
The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff at the Christ Hospital Bone and Spine Unit. We would like to also thank the staff of Hawthorn Glen Rehabilitation Center.
