John A. Tessaro, 73, of Gwinn, died unexpectedly Saturday morning, November 6, 2010 at his residence.
John was born on August 10, 1937 in Crystal Falls, Michigan, a son of Attilio and Angeline (Canale) Tessaro and was a 1955 graduate of Crystal Falls High School.
John served two tours of duty in Vietnam with the United States Air Force, retiring after 26 years of service in 1981 as a Master Sergeant. He then became employed as equipment supervisor for NMU athletics from 1981 until the time of his death.
John was a member of the Athletic Equipment Managers Association, Gwinn VFW Post #5670 and Little Lake American Legion Post #349. He was an avid supporter of all NMU athletic teams and he enjoyed golfing and traveling.
Survivors include his wife, Jill (Hill) Tessaro of Gwinn; four children, Joe (Kelli) Tessaro of Auburn, IN, Gary Tessaro of Antioch, CA, Shelly Bobrowski of Merced, CA and Tony Tessaro of Sacramento, CA; three step-children, Larry Jay (Debbie) Wendt of Negaunee, Jodie (Terril) Blue of Perry, FL and Traci Merrill of Flint, MI; three grandchildren, Tanya, Brandi and Tiffany; five step-grandchildren, Brandin, Lari Lee, Kyle, Cody and Tiarra; two great granddaughters and two step-great granddaughters; one brother, Roland Joe (Wanda) Tessaro of Magalia, CA; his mother-in-law, Mae Rogers of Negaunee; also several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation will be held at the Canale-Tonella Funeral Home in Marquette on Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. and on Thursday from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. in the Bishops Room of St. Peter Cathedral. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 11 a.m. in the cathedral with the Rev. Msgr. Michael Steber officiating. Burial will take place in the Negaunee Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Hans Andel, Dylan Jurasin, Jim Winkler, Randy Awrey, Justin Merks and Bernie Anderson .
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to NMU Athletics in John Tessaros memory.
Jessica Rice wrote on Nov 29, 2010:
"I used to be a student secretary up in the Athletic office and every day John would find a way to make me laugh. He had great humor and was such great person to be around. I just wanted to take a moment to send my thoughts and prayers out to the Tessaro family. He was a wonderful man and his presence was and still will be known at NMU. He will be missed!"
shelly tessaro bobrowski wrote on Nov 28, 2010:
"i just want to take the time to thank everyone for the kind comments about my dad john. your words and thoughts mean the world to my brothers and i and also jill and her kids. im so saddened but reading how everyone loved and respected my dad has put a warm smile in my heart. thank you so very much :) shelly"
Keith Nelsen wrote on Nov 17, 2010:
"Jill, the Nelsen family is praying for you during this difficult time. John was a great man. Once you gained his trust and loyalty you had it for life. I am pleased to have been able to relive the early 80's with him during my visit to Marquette this summer and after the game in Mankato this season. He touched many lives and will be dearly missed. Keith Nelsen NMU, 1986"
Bryan White wrote on Nov 17, 2010:
"Johnny T. You will be greatly missed. He was a tough SOB with a huge heart once you broke through that hard exterior. I saw him a couple weeks ago in Tiffin, OH and he recognized me after 9-10 years. Of course he said "you put on some weight haven't you". It brings a smile to my face, you got to love the guy. With a heavy heart, my condolences go out to the Tessaro family. NMU Football '02"
Bob Stefanski wrote on Nov 15, 2010:
"Jill: I am so sorry about John's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you. We will all miss him. There is so much about John's life to celebrate. From 1981 to 1984 I, along with 75 or so teammates, said hello to John everyday before practice. We razzed him and he razzed us. If we had a problem, John took care of it. Through it all, he was a good friend and a rock for the NMU football family. As much as anything, I'll remember John's smile and friendly words the times I saw him and said hello over the last 25 years, including last summer when I'm fortunate to have had the chance to sit down with John after golf and enjoy a classic UP summer evening. We are all thankful for the time we had with John. Our deepest sympathy goes out to you. Sharing in your sorrow with love and friendship, Bob Stefanski"
Cary Van Sluys wrote on Nov 14, 2010:
"Dear Tessaro Family I am very sorry to hear of John's passing. John was one big part of making my time at NMU a memorable one. John always took good care of me and loved to chat before practice. You will be missed John. NMU Class of '97"
Sandra LeQuier wrote on Nov 13, 2010:
"Jill, So very sorry to hear of John's passing. May it help knowing he is in a much better place. We ask God's blessing upon you and your family. Bob and Sandi LeQuier"
John & Suzanne Coyne wrote on Nov 12, 2010:
"Jill, So sorry to hear about John. He was a good man and always a pleasure to be with. God bless, The Coyne's"
Sharon & Joe Stupsky wrote on Nov 12, 2010:
"Dear Jill and family~~So very sorry to hear of John's passing. He always had smiles for everyone, as you do also. He will be sadly missed by such a tremendous amount of people whom he touched in many ways through his walk in life. May God be with you and your loved ones during this sad time and may your wonderful memories of John continue to bring smiles to your faces."
Harry Broadfoot wrote on Nov 11, 2010:
"Jill, I am so sorry to hear of Johns' passing and my condolences to you and the entire Tessaro family. It was always great seeing you and John at the AEMA conventions every year. Please take care of yourself and may God bless you."
Pam Jancsi Struckel wrote on Nov 11, 2010:
"Joe and the Tessaro family, Expressing my deepest sorrow for your loss. May your memories surround you and bring you peace."
Jason Keefer wrote on Nov 11, 2010:
"Tessaro Family, My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I grew up in Gwinn and knew John as a kid and while I was a student assistant basketball coach with the women's team at NMU. He was always there to greet you with a smile and even if we hadn't seen each other in a while, he would make you feel as though he had just seen you the day before. I will always remember how he was always smiling and how he always made me laugh when we talked. God Bless you and your family during this difficult time."
Phil Virnoche wrote on Nov 11, 2010:
"Tessaro family- John was a kitten in tigers clothing. His wit and compassion will be missed, and hard to replace. May he rest in peace, and may comfort and peace surround you."
Nathan Yelk wrote on Nov 11, 2010:
"John will be greatly missed by myself and many others. He was a great influence on many people and to me, he was the essence of being a true Man. He was never one to sugar-coat things and was hard-nosed when he had to be. Yet, John had a gentle side and a great sense of humor. I was lucky enough to see all sides of John and that is what allows me to appreciate him and who he was to the fullest. John you will be deeply missed but we will always remember the things you taught us and what you represented."
Chris Goerlitz wrote on Nov 11, 2010:
"What a fantastic man! Will be missed by all. His wit, compassion and humor will be missed. I am fortunate to have been able to know him. RIP John."
John Baltes wrote on Nov 11, 2010:
"Jill - I am so sorry and surprised to hear John has passed. As you know, he touched many of us (young athletes) first as a surrogate father figure and then as a friend. When I think of NMU football, John is front and center. When I think Up-North-Lodge, John is front and center. Never to forget a name and always having a positive memory to share, John was one of those individuals everyone loved bumping into. His legacy and what he meant to many of us will not pass with John. Our thoughts are with you in these difficult times. Don't be afraid to reach out for help if the need arises."
Kory & Janet Dykstra wrote on Nov 11, 2010:
"Jill, Traci, Tony, Jody, Shelly, Larry, Joe, Gary and your families. We are so sorry for your loss. We will miss John's insight, humor, wisdom, and genuiness. John always welcomed me with a smile and big bear hug. I will miss that. John and all of you have been a wonderful blessing in my life. I was fortunate to have had many conversations with John throughout the years. I came away a better, wiser person. Oh, don't worry John...I will slow down! Our thoughts and prayers are with you all."
Danny Elmore wrote on Nov 11, 2010:
"Jill & Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Johnny was a huge inspiration to many. I always looked forward to getting to the Dome a little early to talk with him. He always took care of me. NMU Football will never be the same. NMU Football Class of '08"
Mike Boomer wrote on Nov 11, 2010:
"Jill T, John was our biggest Fan and oldest Brother! He will be missed yet how blessed we were to have him in our lives as young men! I'm thankful I had the chance to spend time with him this past summer at our golf outing and I will NEVER forget his words that night! God Bless....stay strong."
Josh de St. Aubin wrote on Nov 11, 2010:
"Jill and Family, My thoughts and prayers are with you. John was a great man and a great friend. I will never forget him."
Chuck Klingbeil wrote on Nov 11, 2010:
"Dear Jill and Family, I am very sorry to hear of your loss. I am fortunate to have met John and know that he was a positive role model to many friends. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time. Sincerely, Chuck Klingbeil"
Biff & Linda Ahlman wrote on Nov 11, 2010:
"Our prayers and thoughts are with you. We know he will be missed, not only by his family but by his multitude of friends. Biff & Linda"
Jeff Carter wrote on Nov 11, 2010:
"Jill; My thoughts and prayers are with you. You will never know how improtant John was to me. He keep me straight when my life was out of control. If it wasn't for him, I don't know where I would be. I will miss him. Jeff Carter"
Julie Anderson wrote on Nov 10, 2010:
"Dear Jill and family, John was a very special man. It was a blessing to enjoy his warm smile, loving hug, & enjoyable conversations at family gatherings. He will be dearly missed. You are in my thoughts & prayers. God bless you."
jerry zemelka wrote on Nov 10, 2010:
"we have lost a good friend our thoughts and prayers to you and family jerry and bernice zemelka"
Rhonda Epplett wrote on Nov 10, 2010:
"Dear Jill & Family My deepest sympathy on the loss of a wonderful man. My prayers are with you. Rhonda (Spratling) Epplett"
John Bush wrote on Nov 10, 2010:
"To Johns Family, Sorry about your loss. John was allways a smiling friendly face on our return trips to NMU. He was a good man and will be missed."
Yvonne Niemi wrote on Nov 10, 2010:
"Jill and Family: I was so sorry to learn of John's passing. He was such a great person to spend time around. Always had a hug and a smile no matter where our paths crossed. He had such a positive affect on NMU's athletes because he truly cared about each of them. My prayers and sympathy to all of you. Yvonne"
Timi Tessaro wrote on Nov 10, 2010:
"Dear Family, I wish I could be there with you during this trying time. My heart, thoughts and prayers are with you all. John was a wonderful man and father in-law. I know he loved me as much I as I loved him. I will miss him greatly and am a better person for knowing him. My love, hugs, tears and kisses to all. Timi"
Marlene Anderson wrote on Nov 10, 2010:
"My Dear Sister Jill and family, Gary and I were blessed to have John for our brother-in-law. He truly lived life to the fullest. John was always a joy to be with, I will forever remember and treasure his welcome happy to see you heart-warming hug each time we were together and that beautiful smile that brightened the room. I know John was welcomed Home by our loving Lord. John will be missed by many especially Gary and me. Gary and I are here for you, all it takes is a phone call. I am covering you like a warm blanket with my prayers. I Love you Sis and I will help you through this difficult time in any way that I can. May God Bless and Comfort you."
Alicia Makela wrote on Nov 10, 2010:
"Tessaro Family, So sorry about your loss of a very special NMU family member. He will be remembered by all who knew him. My thoughts and prayers are with you."
Brice Burge wrote on Nov 10, 2010:
"I'm very sorry to hear about the passing of John. I know how many lives he had touched through his life and what a positive difference he made in each one. You are in my thoughts and prayers."
Dan Leveille Football Class of 83 wrote on Nov 10, 2010:
"Jill & Family, I am so sorry for your loss. When I played ball at NMU, John T always said the right words for us. He gave is a pat on the back or a kick in the tail when we needed it. He was honest, showed us integrity, and reminded us that the best things in life are the hardest to attain, that hard work pays off. I read this poem by Henry Scott Holland and it was as if John were talking to me; Death is nothing at allI have only slipped away into the next room. I am I and you are youwhatever we were to each other that we still areWhy should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? I am but waiting for you, for an interval somewhere very near, just around the cornerAll is well My thoughts are prayers are with you. I will have some Mass said for John."
Julie (Laituri) & Greg Olson wrote on Nov 10, 2010:
"Tony & Family - I was so sorry to hear of the passing of your father. My husband commented on what a great guy your father was from knowing him from NMU. Small world - he had no idea that I knew you, his son, from way back when! My heart & prayers go out to you and your family. Please take care!"
Amanda Tonn-Carlson wrote on Nov 10, 2010:
"Tessaro Family, I am saddened to hear of John's passing. The halls of NMU Athletics will not be the same without him."
Dick and Char Koski wrote on Nov 10, 2010:
"Jill, We would like to express our deepest sympathy to you. John was one of a kind and will be greatly missed. He had a way of relating to people. The year I worked with the Cats was extra special and he was a big reason. I will always remember his sense of humor. God bless you Jill."
Mark Stoessner wrote on Nov 10, 2010:
"Jill- Becky and I are sorry to hear of John's passing. I will always remember the times John and I spent over 15 years working together at NMU. I valued his friendship and learned a great deal from him about work and life.Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time."
Maxine Anderson wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"I have only known John & Jill for 3 short years, through our NMU Football Family - Which I treasure so dearly! I feel like we have had a lifetime of memories. I will never forget what a giving individual he was for our Boys of Fall... & a great friend to Steve & I ......God Speed My friend , Love Maxx,Steve, Zach & Chad!"
Ken Watterson wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"My condolences to the family of John Tessaro. As an Air Force veteran and former member of the 62nd Fighter Squadron at K.I. Sawyer AFB, I honor John's service to his country."
Lani Duquette wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"I was very saddened to hear of John's passing. I have known John since our old air force days dating back to the 62nd & 87th FIS on the K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base. I salute John as a veteran and know he will be missed by his family and many friends at Northern Michigan University."
Robin Fowler LeMieux wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"Jill & Family, I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to have your dad and your family in my life for so many years. May the fond memories that you have help you through this most difficult period and in time put a wonderful smile on your faces. He was truly a wonderful man and will be greatly missed by all. I love you all. Sincerely, Robin"
Keith Jordan wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"To Jill and John's family, We are deeply saddened by the news of John's passing. John meant so much to our family. He was such a warm and welcome sight when we were fortunate enough to return to NMU. His support was always a needed blessing. He fitted Owen's pads, and always made us feel welcome in the U.P. He was an integral part of the football program that we loved so much, and his influence on the players will leave a legacy that has spread across the world. He was lucky to have that opportunity, and we were lucky to know him. Jill our thoughts and prayers will be with you in the days to come. May you feel the strength of God's love as you face the days to come. With heartfelt love and our deepest condolences, Keith, Jacque, Marisa, and Owen Jordan"
Nancy Noel-Eichhorn wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"Jill, I am so sorry for your loss. I have no words to help ease the pain. Know that I am here if you need me and know that John is now with Dad and Bob having a beer...... Love you, Nancy"
Kathy, Pat & Danielle Malay wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"Jill and family - I can't put into words how deeply sorry I am about John's passing. I will truly miss seeing "Grumpy" in the Superior Dome and having him ask how my end of the neighborhood is. Remember to good times and hopefully it will ease the pain if only slightly. NMU Athletics has a guardian angel watching over them now. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."
James Eatmon wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"Very sorry to hear of John's passing. Best wishes to his family. I served with John in the 87th FIS at KIS. It is a sad day in 'Red Bull Country'!!"
Julie Rochester, EdD, Athletic Training Program.. wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"Jill - I am so sorry for your loss. John will be missed very much. It is hard to imagine NMU without him. Julie Rochester"
Harvey Wallace wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"John and I would always meet walking around the halls at the PEIF. We would share a story, talk about the teams, and have a laugh. I was glad to know him. He was a good man and really cared about his student athletes."
linda ketola wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"so sorry for your loss john will be greatly missed by all who knew him all my prayers"
Frank Guastella wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"To the Tessaro Family. I was very saddened to learn of John's passing. I always enjoyed when he came out to Red Fox Run to play golf. He was an interesting, insightful and great person to talk to. It was always a pleasure when he came to play our golf course. He was a loyal NMU supporter."
Al Owens wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"Tessaro family. Our deepest sympathy from the Equipment crew at Grand Valley State University football. We learned something from John on every trip to the Dome. May he rest in peace. Al Owens and Dave Greener"
Michael Oswald wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"Jill & Family, I am so sorry for your loss....Johnny T was a true inspiration to the entire NMU Football nation. I know he has helped mold hundreds of young men into what they are today. According to Johnny T nobody deserves anything...you earned it. What a great man. We were all blessed to have him in our lives. I'll never have another sip of scotch without looking up to him. God Bless"
Brandon Munson wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"Johnny T, You were an amazing part of my football family at NMU. One of my most cherished memories was my journey of trying to gain your respect throughout my career. You started off our relationship by giving me socks with holes in them on my first day of freshman practice and told me I'd have to earn new ones. By my senior year, you'd have given me the world if I asked for it. I'll miss our chats over beers and your wonderful stories. I can only imagine you up there issuing used angel wings to the 'newcomers' telling them they'd have to earn them as well. Always a Wildcat"
John & Flo Bolwerk wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"We are so sorry about John. He will be dearly missed by his friend and neighbor."
David Faiella wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"To The Tessaro Family: I am very sorry for your loss. John was a great guy. I will miss our conversations about life and all the athletic teams at NMU."
Cody Hanson wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"Jill and Family, I cannot express how sorry I am for your loss. Johnny was a great man who genuinely cared for his athletes and had an immense impact on many young-men, including me. I will never forget our talks on the sidelines, while fixing his computer or whenever I randomly ran into him around the facilities at all hours of the day and night. I was very blessed to know him and lucky enough to develop a friendship with him. I'll miss you, Johnny T."
Rick and Jan Oswald wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"Our son Michael thought alot of Johnny T and he will be missed by many as he touched alot of lives through Northern...our thoughts and prayers are with you Mrs. T."
Tracey Skibo wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"I met John when I first moved to Gwinn in 1996 bowling at the Gwinn Inn. I didn't know anyone and the people at bowling became my extended family. After discussion it was realized he was from Crystal Falls and new my family. He was a wonderful man, always happy and joking around at bowling. He always greeted me with a smile and a hug that warmed my heart. He will be missed. Prayers to his family in this most difficult time."
Matthew Skorupka wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"Tessaro Family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. John was one of the best...they don't make'em like that any more! My thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God comfort you and strengthen you at this time. "He comforts us in our troubles so that we can comfort others. When others are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us." 2 Cor. 1:4 Matthew Skorupka NMU Football Class of '05"
Bob & Pamela Belmonte wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"Johnny, you will be missed! Rock will not know what to do at NMU Football without you. You have touched so many parents & players. God Bless! The Belmonte's"
Katie (Canale) Ryan wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"Jill I am so sorry to lose a Canale cousin. He was so happy to have been transferred to KI Sawyer for his last duty station & I had the opportunity to see him and his family my last year at Northern (1973) My thoughts and prayers are with all of you."
Tom Bertoldi wrote on Nov 9, 2010:
"During John's first 3 years at NMU, he was my football equipment manager. 25 years later I walk into the Superior Dome, John recognizes me, yells "Tommy Bertoldi", and hands my son a T-shirt. What a good man he was. He and Jill are one of the nicest couples I ever met. God Bless you both."