John TenPas

John TenPas was born on August 21, 1949, in Plymouth, Wisconsin, to Clayton Harm and Patricia Marie (McKenna) TenPas. He passed away peacefully on January 29, 2026, in Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin, surrounded by family.

John attended St. john the Baptist Elementary School and graduated from Plymouth High School in 1968. He continued his education at Lakeshore Technical Institute before earning both his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Vocational Rehabilitation from the University of Wisconsin- Stout.

John dedicated his life to public service and advocacy for individuals with disabilities. He began his career in Fort Dodge, Iowa, working in Vocational Rehabilitation and at the community college as a vocational evaluator. In 1986, he joined the Iowa Department of Human Rights in Des Moines ass a Disability Consultant, where he spent 32 years serving the citizens of Iowa. John played a key role in developing legislation for accessible parking and assisted state agencies in complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). His expertise and integrity often led him to draft correspondence for the Governor or respond directly to constituents. He retired with pride after a long and meaningful career.

John was actively involved with the Iowa Disability Rights Board of Directors, the National Rehabilitation Association, the Des Moines Access Advisory Board, and the Knights of Columbus.

As a child, John attended Easter Seals summer camp at Camp Wawbeek in the Wisconsin Dells- an experience that brought him great joy and remained a cherished highlight of his life.

John’s passion for the Green Bay Packers filled both his home and his heart. From treasured memorabilia to his pride as a shareholder, he carried his love for the Packers with him always.

On August 19, 1989, John married Loretta Tassin. He cherished their 15 years of marriage to his beautiful wife, Loretta, who was the love of his life. Loretta preceded him in death on April 15, 2005.

John was known for his great sense of humor and kind spirit.

He is survived by his siblings, Jeanine (Chip Tosh) Garcia, Kay (Don) Stenz, and Laurie (Fred) Rivera; brothers-in-law, Richard (Rhonda) Tassin, and Bill (Gayle) Tassin; aunt, cousins, and many nieces and nephews, and great- nieces and great- nephews who loved him dearly.

John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Loretta, and his parents, Clayton and Patricia TenPas.

Memorial services will be held at a later date as family and friends gather to celebrate John’s life and legacy.

In honor of John’s lifelong advocacy and the joy he found through Easter Seals, memorials will be directed to Easter Seals Iowa and Easter Seals Wisconsin- Camp Wawbeek.

Print