William Tesarek

A Funeral Service for William Tesarek of Roseau, MN will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 3:00 PM at Helgeson Funeral Home in Roseau, MN. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the Funeral Home.

“Howdy men! What’s new?”

Willy’s familiar greeting had a way of brightening any day. He loved to stay connected, always eager to hear what was happening around the area—just in case there was something he hadn’t heard yet. With deep love and heavy hearts, we share that Willy has taken his final journey. He passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026, at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, North Dakota.

William “Willy” Tesarek was born on October 7, 1943, to Frank Sr. and Mary Killian Tesarek in Roseau, Minnesota. He attended the one‑room schoolhouse in Beaver township and later completed his education through the eighth grade in Malung. From an early age, Willy embraced hard work. Over the years he held many jobs—planting trees by hand for the forestry service, working in the potato fields of North Dakota, and spending time at Polaris Industries in the mid‑1970s.

But it was working alongside his dad on the family farm that brought him the greatest joy. After his father’s passing, Willy remained on the farm, tending the land and caring for his mother with quiet devotion. On July 2, 1983, he married Adelle, and together they continued farming and milking cows until the late 1990s. After selling the herd, they both went to work at Marvin Windows, where Willy stayed until his retirement.

Willy cherished the simple pleasures that marked the rhythm of the seasons and connected him to his community. He loved attending the Greenbush Fourth of July parade, taking in the sights, sounds, and familiar faces. Each fall, he looked forward to the Strathcona Steam Threshing Show—a tradition he rarely missed. And no matter the occasion, if there was a family gathering and Willy was invited, he was there—happy to visit, catch up, and be part of the moment.

He is survived by his sister Blanche otto; sisters‑in‑law Sylvia Tesarek and Gloria Tesarek; brother‑in‑law Bill Collins; as well as many nieces, nephews, grand‑nieces, and grand‑nephews who will remember him with affection and gratitude.

He was preceded in death by his wife Adelle, parents; brothers Fredrick Killian, Frank Tesarek Jr., and Anton (Mike) Tesarek; sister Mary Otto; and brothers‑in‑law Floyd Otto, James Otto.

Willy was a man who valued good conversation, a familiar road, and the comfort of routine. His curiosity, kindness, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William Tesarek, please visit our floral store.