Tessa Lynne Lacasse

Tessa lived with multiple autoimmune diseases, which she faced with strength, tenacity, and grace. Her life was shaped by challenge and growth, and over time she developed a resilient spirit, a creative heart, and an appreciation for life’s quieter joys.

She had a deep love for animals, especially cats, and they seemed instinctively drawn to her. In her later years, she became something of a real-life Snow White, feeding and befriending the woodland creatures around her home.

Tessa is survived by her daughters Maghan, Erin, and Brittany Cowan, and by her grandchildren Ethan, Elyssa, Reo, and Phillip. She is also survived by her siblings Corlea Freeland and Forbes Parsons. She was predeceased by her husband Jacques Lacasse, her daughter Heather Cowan, and her parents Barbara and James Parsons.

She will be remembered by those who knew her as Aunt: Cassnae (Cory), Mary, Jaidonn (Rachel), Gaerrisen, Addisiane, Brittney, Arizona (Maddi), and Spencer; and as Great Aunt to James, Aaron, Phaidra, Zenith, Landon, Mason, and Wednesday.

In the last years of her life, Tessa experienced the world through a renewed lens. She regained confidence, allowed herself to dream again, and travelled to Portugal, Italy, Greece, Amsterdam, Scotland, and Ireland, where she formed meaningful connections. She also explored the East Coast of Canada, delighting in puffins, icebergs, and whales.

Tessa spent her time painting, baking, swimming, camping, participating in Mud Girl runs, attending Special Olympics events, and cheering enthusiastically for her beloved Ottawa Senators.

In keeping with Tessa’s wishes, aquamation has taken place.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Tessa’s memory may be made to a local animal rescue or a charity supporting autoimmune disease research.

Tessa will be remembered for her bright smile, sharp wit, particularly when it came to music trivia and her unmistakable individuality.

Rock on, Tessa.