The funeral for Robert J. Tessier of 613 County Route 194 Copenhagen, NY will be Friday at noon in the chapel of TLC Funeral Home, Inc. There will be a calling hour prior to the funeral from 11:00 am. til noon. Internment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Barnes Corners Mr. Tessier died at the home of his son Robert L. Tessier and family in Sandy Creek.
He was born July 12, 1927 in Scriba, NY the son of Arthur J. and Blanche Laura Stilwell Tessier. He graduated from Evans Mills High School. Mr. Tessier enlisted in the United States Air Force on February 26, 1948 in Binghamton, NY. While in service, Mr. Tessier served in the United State and Germany as an aircraft and engine mechanic as well as a flight engineer with the 1251st Air transport Group. During his tour of duty, his unit was assigned to participate in the Berlin Air Lift where humanity aid and medical supplies were delivered to the injured and dying civilian in Germany. He was awarded the Germany Occupation Medal and the Berlin Air Lift Device in recognition of his service. Mr. Tessier was honorably discharged from Westover Air Force Base in Springfield, Massachusetts on February 26, 1952.
He married Beatrice Lucas on December 24, 1949 in Watertown, New York with Rev. George McClung officiating. Mrs. Tessier passed away on May 29, 2011.
Mr. Tessier worked as a mechanic for V.S. Jerry in Watertown, Dobbins Auto Parts in Adams and United Parcel Service in Syracuse. He was also served a term as the Town of Pinckney Highway Superintendent. Mr. Tessier was a licensed private pilot and had rebuild a J-3 Cub Airplane and also had built an experimental airplane. He enjoyed building and flying radio controlled airplanes.
He was a member of the American Legion Post 723 in Copenhagen, the Experimental Aircraft Association and the Eagles Club in Watertown. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the Lewis County Humane Society, 6388 Pine Grove Rd. Glenfield, NY 13343-1820
Surviving are his five children Robert L. and Dawn Tessier of Sandy Creek, NY, Elaine Tessier of Lacona, NY, Terry Tessier of Cortland, NY, John Tessier of Barnes Corners, NY and Mrs. John (Julie) Parmeter of Watertown, NY, a brother Richard Tessier of Oregon, a sister Betty Ann Tessier of California and 11 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. Also survived are several nieces and nephews.
A brother John A Tessier died before him.
Mr. Tessier is also survived by his beloved dog and companion, Nancy.