Cletus "Clete" Goetz

Cletus Joseph Goetz, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2026.

Cletus — known as Clete to many and “Pappy” to those who loved him most — was born on September 14, 1936, in Spivey, Kansas. His family later settled in Willowdale, where he spent his childhood working on the family farm alongside his eight siblings.

After graduating from Derby High School, he joined the United States Navy and proudly served as a Plank Owner (first crew member) of the USS Alamo LSD‑33. Upon returning home to Kansas, he worked at Boeing for eight years before beginning a 30‑year career with the City of Wichita as a Building Inspector.

In retirement, Cletus enjoyed golf, doting on his grandchildren, and staying active in the Knights of Columbus. His steady presence, dry humor, and deep devotion to family and faith shaped every chapter of his life.

Cletus is survived by his sisters Dorthy Neal and Mildred Dare; his daughter Tami (Chris Humbert) Goetz, son Todd (Lisa Pflughoeft) Goetz and daughter-by-choice Lee Meyer; and his grandchildren Geneva, Grace, Paige, and Tyler. He was preceded in death by his parents August and Mary Goetz, six siblings Elenora, Bertha, Norbert, Lorraine, Agnes and Sylvester, and his son Troy Goetz.

Rosary will be at 10:00 am; Funeral Mass to follow at 10:30am on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at All Saints Catholic Church.

Services in care of Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.