Tracy Ann Van Cleave

Tracy Ann Van Cleave, an adored daughter, sister, niece, cousin, mother, aunt, grandmother of 12, great-grandmother to one due in November 2026, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026 in Merced, Ca. at the age of 64 surrounded by loved ones.

Tracy was born on May 14, 1962 to Judith Ann Bellinghausen and Michael Edward Jordan in Oakland. She grew up an only daughter making her a bit spoiled with a hint of rowdiness that couldn’t be denied.

Tracy married Cary (Buzz) Van Cleave and they began to grow their little family together when she was 17 yrs old. Always driven to be successful, she achieved her GED at 24 years old and proceeded to study accounting at the Merced Junior College. She used her education and skills at San Benito Glass until she began her 20+ year career at the DMV where she proudly helped numerous customers with that iconic smile on her face and long red hair to go with it. She prided herself in that role until she retired in 2022.

Tracy is survived by her four children, Jennifer Van Cleave, Rebecca Melero (Oscar), Julie Van Cleave (David), and Hans Pryor Jr. (Nina). She is also survived by her parents, Michael and Sue Jordan, and her siblings, Johnny (Deanne), Mike, and Brad. She was preceded in death by her son Justin Daniel Van Cleave, brother Benjamin “Benji” Paul Finch, and mother Judith Ann Bellighausen.

Tracy had a strong faith in God and cherished her loving family. She will be dearly missed by all whose lives she touched. She was deeply loved and will never be forgotten.

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 19th 12:00 at the Snelling Community building located at 3309 Merced Falls Rd. in Snelling California. There will be purple balloon and/or streamers marking the entrance.

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