In loving memory of

William Teska
July 17, 1962 - July 21, 2013

William H. "Billy" Teska passed away at his home after a short and courageous battle with lung cancer. He was a born on July 17, 1962 in Winona to William C. and Mary Lou (Zieman) Teska. He was a 1980 graduate of Winona High School.
Billy grew up across from Bass Camp where he hunted, fished, and trapped when he was young.

He worked at Winona Monument for 10 years, TimberRoots/UBC for 5 years and at Anderson Memorial in Rochester for 9 years until he became ill. He was a Sandblaster and worked on many different projects. A special project was the Rochester Veteran's Park, working with his boss and friend Jeff Anderson.
Billy enjoyed hanging out with family and friends, his flower gardens, and sports. He also enjoyed a good Def Leppard concert.

He is survived by his life companion of 25 years Deb Lande; son, Justin of St. Charles; granddaughter, Alayna Teska of Stockton; mother, Mary Teska of Winona; sister, Cynthia (Bill) Steidtmann and their sons, Ethan and Andrew of Winona; sister, Sue (Joe) Zapf and their sons, Joshua and Christopher of Texas; maternal grandmother Ila Zieman of Winona; Deb's mother, Bev Skelly; Deb's sister, Kathy Skelly and her son Shawn; Deb's daughter Amber Koenig and her daughters Lily and Dakota; Deb's son, Billy Lande; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Billy would like to remember special friends, Jeff Rose, Georgene, Greg, Fred, Buzzy, Mike and Renay, and everyone at Anderson Memorial.

He was preceded in death by his father, William C. Teska; maternal grandfather Francis Zieman; paternal grandparents Herb and Ella Teska; aunts and uncles; and special friends Nora and Mark Davidschoffer.

Billy will be remembered for his loving and gentle nature who kept his faith in God even when he became terminally ill. Billy donated his body to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester.



Tributes

Linda and Joe Mayenschein wrote on Aug 29, 2013:

"We are so sorry to see the death of just a young person. We did not know him but heard alot of him and his family from his Grandmother Ila Zieman. Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your lossā?¦our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time."

Jane Hughes wrote on Aug 3, 2013:

"I did not know Billy, but I know his son Justin. I just want to send my Deep Sympathy to Billy's family for your loss. My thoughts & Prayers are with you."

Lynette Lande wrote on Jul 27, 2013:

"So very sorry to hear of Billy's passing. I always thought of him as a kind, gentle person. He is at peace now....in the arms of God. Hugs and prayers for Deb, Kathy and all of the people that loved him. you will be with him again someday. God Bless and comfort you in your times of sorrow........Hang on to the memories........love to all."

Jayme and Don Wilson wrote on Jul 27, 2013:

"Our thoughts are with his family."

SUE wrote on Jul 27, 2013:

""In Memory of Billy Teska"Although are hearts are saddened by the loss of Billy,we must remember to cherish the joyful memories we have and the impact Billy had on all of our lives.Billy was my big brother and Uncle Billy with the cool snakes to my boys, (CJ and Joshie). We were fortunate to be home in July and enjoy an evening with Billy at the fair prior to his passing.We had a great time enjoying the company of family and the kids and Joe entertained us with fireworks.It is times like this that we remember the deep threads of love woven into the tapestry that make a family who they are.I wanted to take the time and share the good memories my family has of Billy.These memories embrace his personality, courage, and acceptance of his life.One of my memorable moments for Billy was when he won a photography award for a picture he shot of a canoe on a sunset lake up north.This picture is hung in the hallway of his house. As many of you know "Up North"was the vacation spot for the Teska Family and we have many fond memories there.When Billy won the award, I remember seeing an amazing smile on his face that indicated, "wow I have a special gift/talent".Billy had an artistic skill that emanated in the work he did for the past 20 years in designing tombstones.He demonstrated both passion and initiative in his work at the monument company and also his home.Another fond memory was a conversation I had with Billy the night Justin was born.I remember receiving his call and could visualize his tears of joy when he shared his excitement for being a dad.Justin, your dad was so proud to be your father!! and he truly loved you as a son!The moment Billy became a dad, I saw something change in him, as if he found his purpose in life.Billy strived to provide the best he could for his family through his love and hard work.This last year was Billy's most difficult challenge, his fight with cancer.During this time his strength, determination, and courage shined as he went through treatment.Although we may not know or understand why one must go through such hardship,it is in these times that we have to lean on God, family, and friends to guide us through.During this difficult time, I saw Billy find a renewed faith in God.Mom would tell me that he would read his portals of prayers daily.My boys and I prayed daily for Uncle Billy; for his healing from cancer and faith in God.We were blessed to have one more year with Billy, he turned 51 last week. Mom said during his last few day, Billy told her, "he was going home".My last memory is knowing that Billy found his way home and we will see each other again in eternity.Although are hearts are saddened with the loss of Billy, "a father, son, brother, grandfather, and friend"we keep in our hearts the joyful memories and the opportunities for precious time spent together.We know that we will see him again, in eternity with God, our father.John 14:2-3My Fatherā??s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am."

georgine wrote on Jul 26, 2013:

"He was a very wonderful man , and he will be sadly missed by all who knew him. geo"

Pamela Schrock wrote on Jul 26, 2013:

"My deepest sympathy to all of you at this difficult time. May you find peace and comfort as you cherish the many memories you have shared together."

kathy skelly. wrote on Jul 24, 2013:

"he will always be in my heart.. will miss him deeply>>"

Lila Sutherland wrote on Jul 24, 2013:

"lots of good memories with Billy & Jeff, our families yearly trips to Hackensack MN.. lots of fun..fishing, travels to Walker, Mary & I had to go order birthday cake for the kids bdays..will miss you Billy,!! "