Richard J. Certuche

1948 - 2024

Richard J. Certuche

Jul 3, 1948

Oct. 28, 2024

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Richard Certuche, a lifelong resident of Porterville, California, whose legacy as a teacher, mentor, and devoted family man will be remembered and cherished. Richard departed this life on October 28, 2024, to join his beloved wife, Amy, with whom he shared over 50 years of unwavering companionship and love until her passing in 2021.

Born on July 3, 1948, Richard grew up in Porterville, where his passion for sports and dedication to excellence began early. At Porterville High School, he was a standout athlete, a proud member of the 1966 Valley Championship track team and was later honored with induction into the Porterville High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 2017.

Richard pursued higher education at Fresno State University, where he earned his teaching credentials and began a lifelong career in education. For over 30 years, he taught third and fourth grades at John J. Doyle Elementary School in Porterville, where he was affectionately known as "Mr. C." Richard's dedication, care, and strong yet supportive teaching style shaped the lives of countless students and left an indelible mark on the community he loved. Beyond the classroom, he also coached youth sports and inspired young athletes through his love of teamwork and competition.

A devoted family man, Richard married Amy in 1979, and together they raised two children, Kristi, and Richard "Ashley." He was fiercely committed to his family, sometimes working extra jobs?in hot summers, he took on roles as a roofer, as well as teaching English as a second language and American citizenship classes?to provide for them. Richard's joy in life only grew with the arrival of his cherished grandchildren: Ciera, Harley, Marley, Kashis, Jordyn, and Peyton. He loved attending their games, cheering them on, and wrestling with his grandsons in a spirited game they called "Butt Kickin'."

Richard's passions extended beyond the classroom and family. He was an avid fan of WWE wrestling, never missing an episode of Monday Night Raw. While he enjoyed watching the newer wrestlers, his heart belonged to the legends of the 1980s and 1990s. His all-time favorite was "The Rock," whose charisma and electrifying energy matched Richard's vibrant spirit.

A lifelong Fresno State Bulldogs fan, Richard was a regular attendee at the football home openers, often sharing the experience with his son-in-law, Vernon Butler. His pride in his family and his beloved Bulldogs was evident to all who knew him.

Even as he faced significant health challenges in his later years, Richard displayed remarkable strength and resilience, inspiring those around him with his determination and positivity. His unwavering love for his family and his passion for life remained steadfast until the very end.

Richard is survived by his daughter, Kristi, and her husband, Vernon Butler, of Visalia; his son, Ashley Certuche, of Porterville; his bonus son, Shane Castaneda; and his grandchildren: Ciera Certuche, Harley Certuche, Marley Certuche, Kashis Butler, and Jordyn Butler. In his passing, Richard reunites with his beloved Amy and his precious granddaughter, Peyton Jazz Butler, in Heaven.

Richard's life was a testament to love, dedication, and joy, from the classroom to the wrestling ring, from the track field to his family gatherings. His strength, even in adversity, will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

A service to honor Richard's life will be held on Monday, November 25, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Myers Funeral Service & Crematory, located at 248 N E St, Porterville, CA 93257. The service will be followed by a graveside service at Hillcrest Memorial Park Cemetery, located at 1013 E Olive Ave, Porterville, CA 93257.

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