Theresa Maria Kangas, 64, of Plymouth, MN, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2026 at her home. Tess was born on June 14, 1961 in Albuquerque, NM. Her life and career adventured down many paths, with her longest and proudest being a homeschooling mother of five. Her iconic laugh and beaming smile are ingrained in the memories of so many. Tess placed her faith in Jesus as her Lord and Savior and entered heaven having left a lasting mark on family and strangers alike who were fortunate enough to know her. 

She is survived by her five children, Christina (Dan) Frueh, Robert (Katie) Kangas, Joanna (John) Eaton, Sarah Kangas, and Steven Kangas; eight grandchildren, Rain, Dax, Evelyn, Linnea, James, Naomi, Sarah, and Violet; and siblings, Marge Guiton, David Bartalsky, Liz Trebes, Tara Octaviano, and Paul Rice. She is reunited in heaven with parents, Steven Bartalsky and Elizabeth Bartalsky (née Hughes); and brother, Steven Bartalsky II.

 A celebration of Tess’ life will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at Redeemer Reformed Church 1300 Lilac Drive North, Golden Valley, MN with a visitation at 10:00 am and funeral service at 11:00 am. A private burial will follow. Please have any cards and flowers directed through David Lee Funeral Home at 1220 Wayzata Boulevard East, Wayzata, MN 55391.