Mike Berryhill (R-CA-18)

Mike Berryhill California District 18

Biography from Mike Berryhill for Congress **This is from an archive copy of the site**

Mike Berryhill was born and raised in California’s 18th Congressional District on the family ranch just south of Ceres.  Berryhill attended Ceres High School where he was an avid sportsman and student body president before receiving his diploma signed by his dad who was then serving on the board of education.  A dedicated student, Berryhill went on to graduate with distinction from Arizona State University and obtain a Masters in Business Administration from Northwestern University.  During his time at Arizona State, Berryhill met Francesca (Fran) Lawson and shortly after graduation they were married at her family’s home in Naples Florida.

In 1970, Mike and Fran returned to the family ranch in Ceres where Mike joined his dad in working on and managing their 200 acre wine grape operation.  Berryhill became active in the Stanislaus County Farm Bureau and would later serve as President of Young Farmers and Ranchers of California.  In 1973, Berryhill once again followed in his father’s footsteps and was elected to the Ceres School Board.  In 2005, Berryhill Elementary School was named in honor of 3 generations of the Berryhill family who served on the Ceres School Board.

In 1983 Mike Berryhill was appointed to an open seat on the Turlock Irrigation District Board and the following year the people elected him to a full term.  Berryhill’s 26 years of experience as a TID Board member have given him a strong understanding of the water issues facing our state and he is an advocate for increased water storage.

Mike Berryhill comes from a long line of dedicated public servants.  In addition to the three generations of Berryhills that have served on the Ceres School Board, Mike’s Uncle Clare Berryhill served in the State Assembly and Senate as well as California Secretary of Agriculture under Governor George Deukmejian.  His cousins Bill Berryhill and Tom Berryhill currently represent the 25th and 26th districts in the State Assembly.

Mike and Fran Berryhill make their home to this day on the family ranch in Stanislaus County.  They have been blessed with 9 children, 7 boys and 2 girls.  All 7 boys followed the example set by their Father and Grand Father and earned their Eagle Scout Awards, Mike and Fran are proud to see all of their children thriving.

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