MCFARLAND - William F. Tesnow, age 81, of McFarland, peacefully entered God's eternal kingdom on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at St. Mary's Hospital. He was born on October 3, 1943, in Milwaukee, Wis., the son of Pauline (Ziech) and Norman Tesnow.

He grew up in West Allis, Wis. and attended college at UW-Madison. He married Cheryl (Stello) Tesnow on July 23, 1966.

William took pride in providing for his family. He was a hard-working, hands-on businessman who was dedicated to his real estate business and his work in community-based retirement facility operations. He was generous in supporting and mentoring others who were starting out in those businesses.

He was a loyal Green Bay Packers fan and enjoyed playing softball. William was very modest and found joy in beautiful flowers and dancing with his wife, Cheryl. He enjoyed playing bridge, especially with Cheryl early in his marriage, and he continued to play later in his life.

William is survived by his children, Michelle Jolly, Nicole Tesnow and Daniel Tesnow; sister, Paulette (Tesnow) Gibeson and her daughter, Shannon; special friend, Margarette; and so many more lives that he touched. He was preceded in death by his wife, Cheryl Tesnow.

A memorial service will be held at BETHEL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 312 Wisconsin Ave., Madison, at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the start of the service on Wednesday. A celebration of life light lunch will be held at the church immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in William's name to Bethel Media Ministry, 312 Wisconsin Ave., Madison, WI 53703 or to CrossCounsel International Ministries, 4690 Cottage Grove Rd., Madison, WI 53716.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

William F. Tesnow

October 03, 1943 - October 01, 2025

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