Lewis Wesselius

1924 - 2022

Lewis Wesselius
October 7, 1924 - March 25, 2022
Fresno, California - Dr. Lewis F. Wesselius passed away peacefully at home on March 25, 2022 at age 97. He was born October 7, 1924 in Chicago to Agnes and Gerald Wesselius.
Lew enlisted in the Navy at age 18 and while in the Navy was able to continue premedical studies at Miami University, Ohio until his discharge in 1945. He completed college at the University of Missouri then medical school at Washington University, St. Louis. He then completed a residency in psychiatry at the Menninger Clinic in Topeka, Kansas after which he served as Captain in the Army until 1955. He was especially proud to have served in two branches of the military. After his service, he returned to join the physician staff at the Menninger Clinic where he became Associate Director of the School of Psychiatry. In 1971 he moved to Fresno to be the medical director at Kings View in Reedley and subsequently began a private practice of psychiatry in 1976 which he continued until his retirement in 1999.
In 1983 he married Donna Sorensen after meeting her at Hope Lutheran Church where they are both long-time members. Together they enjoyed many years of travel, golf, entertaining and spending time with family and friends. Lew played golf regularly until he was 94. He will be fondly remembered for his intellect, sense of humor and love of his family. He will be greatly missed.
He is survived by his wife Donna, son Lewis Jon (Kathy), stepchildren Kelly von Schack (Wes), Craig Sorensen (Jori), grandchildren Laura (Matt), Peter (Maryam) and Grace von Schack as well as brother Frank (Louise). He was preceded by his sister Celia and his son Dirk.
Private services will be held at a future date. Remembrances may be made to donor's favorite charity.