Michael E. Tessendorf

1949 - 2025

Michael E. Tessendorf

August 12, 1949 - March 30, 2025

Michael E. Tessendorf, 75, of Port Byron, Ill., died Sunday, March 30, 2025, at his home surrounded by family.

Services will be held on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 10 a.m., at Gibson-Bode Funeral Home, Port Byron. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Rock Island National Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the family.

Michael was born on August 12, 1949, in Freeport, Ill., to Howard and Genevieve (Brown) Tessendorf. He grew up and attended school in Pearl City, Ill. In his younger years he delivered can milk for local farmers. He was drafted into the United States Army in 1969 where he drove a 6 X 6 truck. After serving in the Army, Michael was a manager of a cheese factory for three years, and later went to work as a truck driver for different companies, including his own.

Michael married his wife of 39 and a half years, Tammie Carl, on May 17, 1985. Together they share five children, two from previous marriages. He served as a Scout Leader for Pack 308, and was also a volunteer firefighter in Kent, Ill. Michael loved spending time with his grandchildren, attending soccer games and other school events. He adored his children and was very proud of all they have accomplished in their lives. Michael had a heart of gold and would help anyone in need.

Michael is survived by his wife, Tammie; children, Dawn (Tom) Witt, Josephine (David) Zelinski, Troy (Beth) Tessendorf, Michael II (Jade) Tessendorf, and William (Alyssa) Tessendorf; grandchildren, Julia, Samantha, Autumn, April, Austin, Michael III, Hunter, Avery, Carson, Ciara, Guy, and Eden; brothers, James (Lucy) Tessendorf, Terry Tessendorf; sisters-in-law, Cindy Tessendorf and Midge Tessendorf. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brothers, Edward and Larry Tessendorf. Share a memory or condolence at www.gibsonbodefh.com.