David R Teslow

life story

Family is his pride!

He loved having all of the family together on Christmas Eve!

memorial service

Celebration of Life

February 9, 2026

Hosanna Church - Lakeville 9600 163rd St W, Lakeville, MN 55044, USA

Visitation begins at 10am

Service begins at 11am

Light lunch to follow

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Crescent Tide Cremation Services

David Teslow

May 26, 1936 – January 18, 2026

David Rueben Teslow, age 89, passed away peacefully at his home on January 18, 2026, surrounded by his loving family after a long and courageous journey with lung disease and 29 months of hospice care. Even in his final chapter, David remained joyful, active, and deeply rooted in faith—living each day with purpose and grace.

Born in Casper, Wyoming, on May 26, 1936, to Pastor Reuben and Eva Teslow, David was raised in North Dakota, in homes that championed faith, family, and service. These values shaped every aspect of his life and legacy.

After graduating high school, David attended Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, where he met the love of his life, Kay. He later earned a business degree from the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks. David and Kay were married for 66 beautiful years, raising three children and building a life filled with laughter, learning, and love.

A Life of Purpose and Leadership

David’s professional journey was one of mission-driven leadership and lasting impact. He began his career at Kellogg’s Cereal Company before moving into roles that reflected his calling to serve others—holding key leadership positions at the American Lutheran Church, Augsburg College, and the Methodist Hospital Foundation. He culminated his career as President and CEO of the University of Minnesota Medical Foundation, where his integrity, vision, and heart for others left a profound legacy.

Even after retirement, David never stopped giving back. He volunteered at the Minneapolis–St. Paul Airport, Methodist Hospital, and—remarkably—even during hospice care, served joyfully at the information desk at Park Nicollet Clinic. His energy and desire to help others were truly unshakable.

A Heart for Family and Community

David and Kay built their home and raised their family in Bloomington, MN, before spending cherished years in Arizona. Whether hosting backyard parties, golfing with friends, fishing with his grandchildren, or creating unique metal artwork in retirement, David brought passion and joy to all he did.

He was a man who noticed the details, cherished meaningful conversations, and uplifted others with encouragement and wisdom. His strong yet gentle spirit was admired by all who knew him.

Faith as the Cornerstone

David’s faith in Jesus Christ was the guiding light of his life. He leaned on Scripture for strength, most notably Philippians 1:21:

“For me to live is Christ, to die is gain”

He faced death not with fear, but with peace—confident that he was going home.

He was deeply grateful to Park Nicollet Home Care Hospice for their compassion and support, which allowed him to continue living fully, faithfully, and surrounded by love.

Survived By

David is survived by his beloved wife Kay;

His children:

Mark (Darla) Teslow

Lynn (Leigh) Tenenholtz

Kari (Scott) Swedin

His grandchildren:

Kalli (Joe) Marion

Josh (Sam) Teslow

Aaron (Katie) Teslow

Rachel (Austin) Gerth

Sam Tenenholtz

Sarah Tenenholtz

And his great-grandchildren:

Eddie and Wesley Marion

Nora and Avery Teslow

He is also survived by his sister Carol Dahl, nieces, nephews, friends, and a legacy that will live on in every life he touched. He was preceded in death by his parents, Pastor Reuben and Eva Teslow; his brother Paul and sister-in-law Marilyn Teslow; and his niece Lori Teslow.

Memorials preferred to Park Nicollet Hospice c/o Park Nicollet Foundation, 6500 Excelsior Boulevard, St. Louis Park, MN 55426 or online at: Parknicollet.com/givetohospice