Marc Stanley Tesler's Obituary
In Loving Memory of MARC TESLER
12/17/1945 – 10/19/2024
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our father, and beloved husband Marc Tesler, a visionary entrepreneur, beloved father, and friend to many. His life was a testament to ambition, generosity, and humor, leaving an enduring legacy that touched countless lives
As a venture capitalist, Marc played a role in launching companies that reshaped industries, including Starbucks, Staples, and Netflix. His uncanny ability to see potential where others couldn’t, combined with a gift for turning complex challenges into straightforward solutions, defined his career. Yet, beyond his professional success, he was known for his kindness, patience, and willingness to mentor anyone who sought his counsel.
Friends and colleagues affectionately called him "the smartest guy in the room"—a title he embraced with humor, often remarking that he was simply selective about the rooms he entered. His guiding principles were straightforward but memorable, including his "no assholes policy" and the important, oft shared reminder, that if you ever really needed to clear a room, nothing would accomplish that goal faster than threatening to “drop trou”. He was wise, generous, and always funny.
As a father, Marc was a source of calm and unwavering support. His children knew him as a patient listener, a wise advisor, and someone who made life’s most complicated moments feel manageable. He was equally devoted to his role as a grandfather, cherishing every moment spent with his grandchildren, Leo, Zeke, Liem, Vinh, Grayden and his only granddaughter Magnolia. His commitment to her extended beyond family, as he served on the board of the Rett Syndrome Research Trust, advocating tirelessly for the cause and providing generous support to help find a cure.
Marc leaves behind a devoted wife of 57 years, Ellen who he had been with since the 7th grade, three sons, Steven, Richard and Adam, their spouses, Merril, Hoang-Yen and Jennifer he loved as his own kids, his six grandchildren, his sister, Sandra, and his beloved nieces and nephews who will carry forward his spirit and the lessons he imparted. His memory will live on not only in the companies he helped build but also in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know him.
A funeral service celebrating his life will be held at Beth Israel Memorial Chapel (Delray Location) on October the 22nd at 1:00 PM, at: 5808 West Atlantic Avenue Delray Beach, FL 33484.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to The Rett Syndrome Research Trust, a cause he championed in his granddaughter’s honor.
https://reverserett.org/
His wit, wisdom, and presence will be deeply missed, but his impact on the world—and in our lives—will remain forever.
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