Thaddeus “Thad” Tuttle, age 50, of Ellendale, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, February 9, 2026.
Born on December 28, 1975, in Spencer, Iowa, Thad was the son of Earl Tuttle and Margie Poss Tuttle. He grew up in Milford, Iowa, and graduated from Spirit Lake High School in 1993. From a young age, Thad embraced hard work and independence. At just 11 years old, he started his journey in the workforce as a dishwasher for Piccadilly Circus Pizza—a job that sparked his lifelong passion for the food and service industry. He remained dedicated to the company (and its evolution through Landmark Products) for over 30 years, demonstrating remarkable loyalty and drive.
Thad quickly advanced from his early days in the kitchen, working his way up to sales associate, then territory manager, and ultimately Director of Business Development. His role involved extensive travel to trade shows and client meetings, where he excelled at building relationships, closing deals, and forging lifelong friendships across the industry.
It was during one of those work trips that Thad met the love of his life, Jessica Marcus, at a gas station in Ellendale, Minnesota. Their chance encounter blossomed into a deep partnership; the couple married on May 4, 2002, at First Lutheran Church in Ellendale.
Shortly after their marriage, around 2003, Thad and Jessica took on an exciting entrepreneurial venture: they purchased and operated a convenience store in Hayfield, Minnesota, for about five years. Even while managing this hands-on business, Thad continued his full-time career with Piccadilly Circus Pizza/Landmark Products—traveling, advancing his sales roles, and balancing family life with unwavering commitment. This period showcased his tireless work ethic and ability to juggle multiple responsibilities while providing for his growing family.
In 2022, Thad bravely pursued a new chapter, earning his insurance license on the side and transitioning fully into the insurance world. In 2023, he and Jessica realized another shared dream by purchasing and opening their own Farmers Insurance branch in Owatonna, Minnesota. This became a true family business, with Jessica and their two youngest sons actively involved in the office, carrying forward Thad’s spirit of entrepreneurship, service, and community connection.
Thad loved serving his community, being a board member of Big Brother Big Sisters, a member of the Owatonna Chamber of Commerce, and recently getting ready to perform in this year’s Dancing with The Steele County Stars. He had a great passion for helping people, socializing, and entertaining. Thad enjoyed working out, golfing, and spending time with family, whether it was family trips to Okoboji to visit his Aunt Bonnie and Uncle Rod Simonson or watch his sons in their sporting events. Thad enjoyed spending quality time with all his family and many friends.
He is survived by his wife, Jessica of Ellendale, MN; their sons, Jacob, William, and Wyatt; his parents, Earl Tuttle and Margie Poss Tuttle; half-sisters: Marissa Hoffman, Desiree (Christoher) Ciak, and Ishandra (Randall) Reese; close nephew, Gage Tuttle; parents-in-law, Mike and Barb Marcus; sister-in-law, Jamie (Mark) Kotsmith; grandmothers, Betty Tuttle and Janice Jensen; and many beloved nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Calvin Gene Tuttle; and grandparents, Bob Tuttle, Rita and Willie Poss; aunts and uncles: David Poss, Leland Poss, Anthony Poss, Bobby Tuttle, and Jackie Schenck; and very close friends: John Christensen, Jason Farrell, and Justin Champine.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be expressed to Big Brothers Big Sisters, Healthy Seniors of Steele County, or First Lutheran Church in Ellendale in Thad’s memory.
A funeral service will be held at 11 am on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at First Lutheran Church in Ellendale officiated by Pastor Arne Halbakken. A visitation will be held from 5 to 7 pm on Friday, February 13, 2026, at Michaelson Funeral Home in Owatonna. An additional visitation will be held from 10 am until the time of service. Thad will be laid to rest at First Lutheran Cemetery in Ellendale. Friends and family are invited to RJ’S on 5th Ave Bar & Grill in Ellendale after the meal at the church to celebrate and remember Thad‘s will-lived and prosperous life.