Cletus “Birddog” Broich, age 83, of Wall Lake, IA, passed away on Saturday, August 12, 2017, at St. Anthony Regional Hospital in Carroll, IA. Cletus John Broich was born on April 15, 1934, to parents Hubert and Lena (Schulte) Broich in Carroll, IA. Cletus grew up on a farm in the Wall Lake area. He attended school through the 8th grade and then worked with his father on the farm.
On January 26, 1954, Cletus entered the United States Army. He served with the Battery A 9th AAA Missile Battalion stationed at Fort Baker in South Sausalito, CA. Cletus attained a PFC ranking and was honorably discharged on August 2, 1955. His honors included a National Defense Service medal.
After Cletus’ service to our Nation, his employment included truck driving, being a hired hand to farmers in the area, and lastly a school bus driver. He was a member of the American Legion Post 262 in Wall Lake, IA. Birddog enjoyed life…telling jokes and his classic Clete stories to area troopers and deputies not only brought smiles to their faces, but his too. He liked spending time outside, especially going fishing and hunting. His most highlighted hunting memory was being with Shelby when she shot her first buck - an 8 pointer! Most of all, Cletus loved and treasured spending time with his family. His great-granddaughter Lucy “lil bit”, was sure to bring a smile to his face.
Cletus will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Those left to cherish his memory are: daughter Kathi (Jack) DeBourgh of Lake View, IA; granddaughter Shelby (Joe) Herrig of Wall Lake, IA; great-granddaughter Lucy Herrig of Wall Lake, IA; brother Verlin (Jan) Broich of Yuma, AZ; sisters Ruth Ann Peters of Lake View, IA, Millie Steinkamp of Wall Lake, IA, Alice (Tom) DeGraw of Red Bluff, CA; many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Cletus was preceded in death by his parents Hubert and Lena Broich; brothers-in-law Lawrence Peters, Amby Steinkamp- his best fishing buddy; and great nephew Christopher Ohden.
