Dean J. Tessenske, age 72, of Tomahawk, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, Nov. 1, 2021, at his home. Dean was born in Milwaukee, Wis., on Sept. 10, 1949, to the late Ervin and Dorothy (Pautz) Tessenske. He was married to Charlene Buretta on May 15, 1971; she survives.
Dean grew up in Milwaukee and graduated from Bay View High School with the Class of 1967. After high school, he attended MSOE, earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering and later where he received his Master’s Degree. Dean entered the workforce at John Deere in Horicon, Wis., and remained there until his retirement in 2001. In 2005, Dean and his wife retired up to the Northwoods of Tomahawk, an area they had long loved and vacationed at. It truly was his happy place. Dean enjoyed the outdoors and above all, his family.
As the word of his passing has spread, the messages and well-wishes have been pouring in. One thing has been clear. Not only was he cherished by his family, he was loved by all who knew him. The common themes included the love he had for his family, his incredible sense of humor, and the light and kindness he shared with all who met him.
Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Charlene Tessenske; his daughters, Nicole (Glenn) Hilby, and Noel (Clint) Wenthur; his grandchildren, Charlie and Lily Reeg, Natalie and Naomi Wenthur, and Gracie Hilby; his brother, Dennis (Marlene) Tessenske; and his sister-in-law, Cathy (Mark) Rechlicz. He is further survived by several nieces and nephews.
Dean was preceded in death by his parents, Ervin and Dorothy; his mother-in-law, Ruth Buretta; and his father-in-law, Charles Buretta.
Dean often said that you’re never lost as long as you remember no matter where you go, there you are. While we are feeling lost without him, we feel so lucky to have loved and been loved by him. He is our true north and always will be.
In accordance with the family’s wishes, no formal services will be held. Generations Funeral Home & Crematory, Tomahawk, is assisting the family. You may view Dean’s obituary and leave online condolences at www.generationsfuneral.com.