Jerry "Mike" Tesch, age 69, of Coon Rapids, MN passed away on August 12, 2025, just days shy of his 70th birthday at his summer cabin in Remer, MN.

Mike was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Gerald and Lois Tesch. He is survived by his daughter, Stephanie (Bernie) Cline; son, Steve (Fianna) Tesch; his cherished grandchildren, Julia, Lillianah, Kayden, Lillanna, Levi, and Willow. He also leaves behind his loving sisters, Linda (Gene) Sommerfeld and Nancy Pagel; his brother Paul Tesch, along with many nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.
Mike dedicated over 40 years of his life to the BNSF Northtown Diesel Shop, where he worked as a pipe fitter. His commitment to his craft and his coworkers was unwavering, and he took pride in a job well done. Whether it was fixing a locomotive, sharing a joke, or playing cribbage during a break, Mike brought reliability and camaraderie to every shift.

Outside of work, Mike found joy in the simple things— his family, fishing, and playing cribbage with anyone willing to take him on. He was a man of few words, but his actions spoke volumes. Mike's legacy will live on in the values he instilled, the stories he shared, and the love he gave to those fortunate enough to be in his circle.

A memorial open house will be held on Thursday, September 4, 2025, from 4:00-6:00 pm at Riverwinds Community Center, 2701 Northdale Blvd. NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55433.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you share a memory, raise a glass, or simply take a moment to appreciate the people who make life meaningful—just as Mike always did.