Jeffrey Tanke

Jeffrey Tanke, age 63, of Wood Lake, Minnesota, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, January 2, 2026, in Cobb County, Georgia, while on a trucking route after suffering a medical emergency. Visitation will be held Saturday, January 24, 2026 from 1:00-3:00 PM with a Memorial Service at 3:00 PM at the Wing-Bain Funeral Home in Granite Falls.

He was born on October 16, 1962, in Glencoe, Minnesota, to Wallace Tanke and Darlene Tanke. He grew up in Hamburg, Minnesota, where he lived with his grandparents, Erna and Walter Tanke, along with his brothers. Later in life, he made his home in Wood Lake, Minnesota, where he lived for many years. Jeff loved his three daughters deeply and was proud of each of them every day. On March 4, 2011, he married Shellie Standfuss, his partner and best friend, with whom he shared countless adventures, laughter, and love.

Jeff loved the open road and being behind the wheel of his semi, a career he took great pride in. He enjoyed spending summers camping with his wife and fishing, especially the trips to Canada he shared with friends—memories he truly treasured. In his downtime, he relaxed watching his favorite western movies and spending time with his beloved pets.

Jeffrey is survived by his wife, Shellie Tanke, of Wood Lake; his children, Crista (Brandon) Olson of Cottonwood, Minnesota, Desiree (David) Morrison of Maple Grove, Minnesota, and Amber Anderson of Fountain Hills, Arizona; eight grandchildren, Chase, Callan, Coyer, Poppy, Brynnlee, Jori, Kennedy, and Knixon, with one more grandchild on the way; his brothers, Greg Tanke, James (Merl) Tanke, Jeremy Fiecke, Chris Fiecke, and Ryan Fiecke; his pets, Morgan, Tucker, and Ali; his in-laws, Angie (Sean) Jensvold, Chrisie Standfuss, and Curt (Lynn) Standfuss; as well as extended family and many friends who will miss him deeply.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Erna and Walter Tanke; his parents, Wallace Tanke and Darlene Tanke; his brother, Rodney Dittmer; his dog, Captain; and his in-laws, Everett and Sharon Standfuss.

Gone fishing.