Jeffrey Lynn Tennant

Jeffrey Lynn Tennant, age 79, of Galesburg, Michigan, passed away on Saturday, January 24, 2026. He was born on January 25, 1946, in Benzonia, Michigan, the son of James and Alice (Carlson) Tennant.

Jeff was raised in Onekama, Michigan, where he graduated from Onekama High School in the Class of 1964. During his high school years, he was an avid basketball and baseball player, demonstrating both athletic skill and teamwork. Known for being quite athletic throughout his life, Jeff maintained an active lifestyle well into adulthood. Following graduation, he attended Grand Rapids Community College from 1964 to 1965, pursuing studies in Law Enforcement.

Jeff proudly served his country as a member of the Military Police during the Vietnam Conflict after being drafted into the United States Army. His dedication and service reflected his strong sense of duty and honor.

On September 25, 1965, Jeff married the love of his life, Arlene Clarke. Their marriage was a beautiful partnership built on love, respect, and devotion, and many who knew them would say their relationship exemplified what marriage was truly meant to be. Shortly after their wedding, Jeff was drafted into the Army in April 1966, and the couple made their home at Fort Monroe, Virginia. Their first child, Jennifer, was born there on August 24, 1967. Jeff was discharged from active duty in April 1968 and from the Reserves in April 1972.

Eventually, Jeff and Arlene settled in the Kalamazoo area, where they built a life and raised their family. They welcomed two more children, Christina on December 25, 1971, and Benjamin on September 20, 1974, creating a home filled with love, laughter, and family pride.

Jeff worked for Frito-Lay from March 1971 until his retirement in April 1993. In 1986, he also started his own mobile power washing business, reflecting his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit.

One of Jeff's greatest joys was his lifelong passion for vehicles and motorsports. At just 16 years old, he purchased his first car - a 1940 Ford - long before owning the vehicle he would later become famous for among friends and car enthusiasts. Each year, he and Arlene celebrated their anniversary by traveling to Michigan's Upper Peninsula in his beautifully restored 1968 Chevy Impala SS 396. Jeff earned numerous awards at car shows and loved sharing his pride and enthusiasm with fellow car lovers.

Jeff's love of motors extended beyond cars. In his younger years, he owned a Triumph motorcycle, and later rode a Harley-Davidson, embracing the freedom of the open road. He also cherished outdoor adventure - spending many hours snowmobiling up north with Arlene and riding dirt bikes with his son well into his 50s.

Jeff and Arlene also cherished traveling together, including a memorable train trip to California and drives to Alabama to visit family. They owned a home in Manistee, Michigan, which became a treasured gathering place for family and friends, especially around the Fourth of July.

Jeff was preceded in death by his beloved wife of fifty years, Arlene Tennant; his brother, David Tennant; and his parents.

He is survived by his children, Jennifer (Andy) Hooker, Christina (Eric) Peterson, and Benjamin Tennant; grandchildren, Kathryn Cannell (Jon), Lauren Akins, Alex Peterson (Erin), Kylie Gunthorp (Evan), Dallas Tennant, Dakoda Tennant, and Anne Delke (Logan); great-grandchildren, Sean and Eden Cannell, Cooper Peterson, and Kaya Delke; his brothers, Ronald Tennant and Darwin Tennant; and many extended family members and dear friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the CJD Foundation or the Autism Foundation. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

In accordance with the family's wishes, cremation has taken place. A time of gathering and remembrance will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.

Though his earthly journey has ended, Jeff now cruises eternal highways-his engine forever running on love, memories, and the open road.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com, please take time to sign Jeff's guestbook and/or share a memory with his family.

The Tennant family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI 49002. 269-344-5600.