Louis Joseph Tellish II

Louis Joseph Tellish II was born on April 26, 1941, to Louis and Irene Tellish in Detroit, Michigan. He passed away peacefully on September 29, 2025, in Brooklyn, Michigan.

Lou graduated from Fordson High School and, in 1962, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He served his country proudly for four years and was honorably discharged in 1966. During a military leave, Lou met the love of his life, Carolyn, at Camp Dearborn. After his discharge, he sought her out, hopeful she was still interested—and she was. They married on October 9, 1970.

Lou embarked on a long and distinguished career with the Dearborn Fire Department beginning April 7, 1970. He was promoted to Firefighter II in 1975, Lieutenant in 1980, and Captain in 1985. He faithfully served the department for over 28 years, retiring in 1998. Known for his competence, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the residents of Dearborn, Captain Tellish led by example and earned the respect of everyone around him.

He also served multiple terms on the Union Executive Board and was recognized as a steady voice of reason—someone who would listen, seek understanding, and strive for unity when possible. Even after retirement, Lou remained active with the fire department community. He frequently supported DFD fundraisers, joined events such as the Memorial Day Parade, and was always available when someone needed advice or perspective.

Beyond his career, Lou was a devoted husband, father, brother, and friend. He was an excellent and loving caregiver to his wife, Carolyn, until her passing in 2008. He loved traveling north to his uncle’s cottage and was a constant presence in his daughter’s life—attending countless plays and games, and even teaching fire safety to Jennifer’s class throughout her school years.

In his early retirement, Lou embraced life fully. He enjoyed traveling, concerts, cruises, dancing, and get-togethers with friends. He treasured time spent with loved ones and had a joyful, active spirit that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

During the last few years of his life, Lou was blessed to share his home with his six beloved grand-dogs, three grand-cats, and his sidekick house rooster, Obie. Every morning, Obie greeted Lou and shared his pastries, and in the evenings, he would come inside to sit with Lou and watch TV.

Lou is survived by his daughter, Jennifer (Allen Kirk), his sister Margo Tellish, and his brother Steve Tellish. He will be remembered for his service, his humor, his loyalty, and the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed by his family, his friends, and the Dearborn Fire Department community.

Visitation will be held on Thursday October 9th, 2025 from 11:00 AM until 3:00 PM with his service beginning at 3:00 PM from the Dearborn Chapel of Howe-Peterson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 22546 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, Michigan, 313-561-1500.