Jeffrey "Jeff" D. Tessendorf, 69, of Washington, passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on Monday, January 19, 2026, after a brief illness.

He was born on September 16, 1956, in Elgin, Illinois, to Lamonte D. and Diane R. (Runge) Tessendorf. He married Susan Tessendorf and she preceded him in death. He later married Kimberly A. Bishop in Peoria, Illinois, on September 14, 1996. She survives.

Also surviving are three children, Chelsey E. (D.J.) Tessendorf, Kaylinn E. Tessendorf, and Shane J. Tessendorf; two grandchildren, Madilynn May and Lucas; one sister, Robin (Ron) Smith; mother-in-law, Kay Bishop; two brothers-in-law, Douglas (Molly) Bishop and Thomas Bishop; an aunt, Mary Kay Bishop; along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Larry R. Tessendorf; his cousin, Ronnie Nunes; and his father-in-law, Thomas J. Bishop Jr.

Jeff was a United States Navy veteran who served during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Enterprise (CVN-65) as a flight deck attendant. He got to explore many different countries, his favorite being Australia. He was very proud of his service to his country. He later attended DeVry Institute in Chicago, where he graduated. In the early 1980s, he moved to Peoria, Illinois.

Jeff worked at Comcast as a technician, retiring in 2023 after 44 years of service. He loved taking care of his home and maintained an immaculate lawn. He was a devoted Green Bay Packers and St. Louis Cardinals fan-much to his father-in-law's dismay, a diehard Bears and Cubs fan-although that didn't stop them from enjoying games together. Jeff could fix anything, and on the rare occasion he couldn't, he would figure it out and carry on.

His greatest joy was spending time with his family. He was extremely proud of the kids. He loved watching the antics of his grandkids, who definitely made him laugh. He also dearly loved his family pets and enjoyed spending time with them. There were many holidays, pool parties, BBQs, and yearly fireworks celebrated together. He will be dearly missed.

Per his wishes, cremation has been accorded. There will be no services at this time. Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Easter Seals or Cats of West Central Illinois.