Anthony “Tony” James Tesso, 83 of Crestline, passed away on December 15, 2024, at Ohio Health Mansfield Hospital. Tony was born on December 8, 1941, to the late Frank and Lena (Lanni) Tesso, Sr.
Tony was a graduate of Crestline High School, class of 1959. He spent his working career as operations manager for Geauga Plastics, Medex of Columbus and Stelrema Corporation of Knox, Indiana.
Tony found solace in the great outdoors, spending countless hours fishing for trout in Pennsylvania and enjoying the serene docks of Lake Erie. He cherished the thrill of summer and fall, often attending county fairs to watch harness racing—an activity that fueled his long-standing involvement with the Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association (OHHA). His enthusiasm for life and dedication to his interests extended to being an active member of the Sons of Italy, where he fostered camaraderie and a sense of belonging.
Beyond his love for sports and outdoor activities, Tony appreciated the excitement of attending auctions and the discipline of target shooting, practices that brought him joy and connection with fellow enthusiasts.
Tony is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Betty and Phil Atzinger of Massillon, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Tony was preceded in death by his siblings; Nick Tesso, John Tesso, Mary Osborne, Joe Tesso, Kate DelGreco, Nat “Buddy” Tesso, Frank Tesso Jr., Josephine Hoffer and Concetta Tesso.
Friends may call on Friday, December 20, 2024, from 10:00am until 12:00pm at the Mark A. Schneider-Gompf Funeral Home, 223 West Main St., Crestline, OH 44827. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held following visitation at 12:30pm at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 331 N. Thoman St., Crestline with Father Jeff Smith officiating. Burial will immediately follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or St. Joseph Catholic School.
The Mark A. Schneider-Gompf Funeral Home, Crestline is honored to serve the family of Anthony James Tesso.