Tessa was born in Peoria, IL on March 20, 2006. She was the youngest of 5 and the only biological child of Rich & Michelle. She was loved beyond measure and brought so much happiness to her family.
She was a talented and competitive athlete her whole life with soccer being her main sport. She had a sassy personality at times but was a true empathic soul at heart. She cared deeply about those she loved and was a loyal friend. She loved sports, music, art and animals. She adored being an aunt.
She was diagnosed with an aggressive form of sarcoma in her chest wall during her freshman year of high school. She endured nearly two years of treatment before passing just four days after turning 17. Her spirit is kept alive through the foundation that bears her name. She was loved by many and will never be forgotten.