Jerry Robert Tessman

Jerry Robert Tessman, age 78 of Clinton Township, died Friday, May 6, 2016 at McLaren Macomb Hospital in Mt. Clemens, Michigan. He was born June 4, 1937 in Detroit, son of the late Albert Hugo and the late Josephine Olga (nee: Faust) Tessman.A longtime member and fellow brother of Teamsters Local 299, Jerry was that smilin' face behind the wheel of the J.L. Hudson's truck that brought happiness to many homes and lives throughout his many years with the company. Being quite proud of his career with the iconic retail giant, Jerry was equally enthralled to be a part of his fraternal brotherhood of truck driver's, too. He was also known for being quite adept when it came time for a little tooling on the many cars he repaired over the years. Jerry loved exacting his own brand of Mr. Goodwrench where automobiles were concerned, and was renowned for keeping an engine purring like a kitten. For his time away from the job, Jerry's tastes in pastimes and hobbies was quite eclectic. Always the consummate Michigander, three of his favorite things to do involved bowling, fishing, and attending Deer Camp. Does anything more scream "Michigan" than that trio? Unless, of course, were talking about engaging in a game of Euchre. For many years, Jerry loved joining with his fellow bowlers in their search for that "perfect game." He was a member of countless leagues, and the recipient of many trophies for his prowess with the pins. Then there was his penchant for fishing, a Michigan pastime that offered Jerry the peace and serenity of a quiet day on the lake or river,…which, from time to time, would be replaced by reeling in the "Big One." And Deer Camp? This was an entirely different and unique fraternity of men that he always looked so forward to joining each year,…again, in search of the "Big One"…and making some great hunting memories with his buddies.Jerry was also known for being a fan of the ball sports, specifically baseball and softball. For a bit of TV pleasure, he loved tuning in to the Little Leaguer's baseball and the Collegiate Girl's softball games. As for enjoying a ball game up close and personal, hangin' out in the bleachers watching his grandkids swing their bats in competition was always a fond and memorable pastime. For those sports he enjoyed that were closer to home, a great time could always be had shooting a little pool, throwing a game of horseshoes, or challenging fate in a good, ole game of Jarts. That's right,…the big, long & pointy kind!As for some of his non-sporting delights, (though some might argue that gambling is a sport),…little could match the pleasure and exhilaration of hitting the casino and giving Ol' Lady Luck a run for her money. Jerry loved the aura and sounds of the casino, and was a world-class pro on those One-Armed Bandits. Playin' the slots not only provided the perfect venue for a bit of wanton release, but every now & then paid out quite nicely. Though he visited many of the local haunts, his favorite was the casino across the river in Sarnia, Canada. And when it came to a game of chance, Jerry was also HUGE on his favorite Lotto cards,…you know, the pull tab kind. Always in search of that big payout, he must have pulled countless thousands of tabs throughout his life.Mellowing out and winding down would find Jerry cozying up to the TV for a little Classic Movie action,…or perhaps an interesting TV show, circa the 60's or 70's,…like one of his popular favorites, "Gunsmoke." Nothin' said entertaining more than watching Marshall Dillon take down the bad guy in the streets of Dodge City,…or getting a good chuckle from watching Ol' Doc ruffle Festus' feathers. Now THAT was some great TV, and Jerry ate it up.And speaking of eating it up,…the Lake Breeze restaurant in Harrison Township and the Hometown Grill in Clinton Township just won't be the same without Jerry's presence for breakfast. He had become quite a staple at both eateries over the years, and simply enjoyed the tasty meals and friendly conversations he shared with countless family and friends. Congregating socially was when Jerry was in his wheelhouse, and this was never more true and evident than the Friday nights shared with his fellow Moose at the lodge in St. Clair Shores. There was just something about those fraternal ties that meant the world to Jerry,…and he ate them up, too! From more of a unique side came Jerry's fascination with garden lighting fixtures,…a collection he loved to share with his loved ones as well. His yard was lit from stem to stern with a luminating glow and shimmer as his solar powered beauties expended their energy from the daytime rejuvenation stored up. Jerry found his display to be so warm and comforting that he just couldn't help but to share his allure with those close to him. Another item he shared unselfishly and often were the countless quarters he put into the hands of his treasured grandchildren. Grandpa's love being remembered for those little things, and Jerry just couldn't get enough of watching his cherubs light up each time he extended another quarter. Yet he gave so much more,…to both his little ones and big ones alike. A loving husband, father, grandfather and friend, Jerry impacted the hearts and souls of a multitude of lives in his journey through life,…and was, in his own unique way, an inspiration to all. He leaves a legacy of love for all to cherish with each reflection shared, may he rest in peace. Go Rest High, dear brother. Jerry was the beloved husband of Kathryn. Dear father of Kelly (Martin) Fennell, Tracey (John) Fennell, Robert (Cheri) Tessman, and the late Amanda Tessman. Loving grandfather of Emily, Michael, Evan, Matthew, Evie, and Drew. Brother of Fatsy, Mickey, Albert Harvey and Archie, all of whom preceded him in death. Visitation for Jerry will be held Monday, May 9th from 5-9pm, with a 7pm Scripture Service, at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Rd) in Warren. He will lie in state on Tuesday from 9:30 am until time of the Funeral Mass at 10 am at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church in St. Clair Shores. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are welcomed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or to www.stjude.org. Please share memories of Jerry at his memory book above.