SPECK, Tesekla "Tese" Migisi Deline
September 29, 1984 - July 23, 2010
It is with immense sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Tese Speck at 25 years old. Having succumbed to the illness of epilepsy, Tese left us in the early morning of July 23rd.
Tese was born in Vancouver on a beautiful sunny afternoon in September of 1984 to parents Joann Restoule and Wedlidi Speck. Kwakwaka'wakw on her father's side and Anishnabe on her mother's, Tese was surrounded early in her life by ancient songs, dances and stories. At the age of four, the family moved to the Comox Valley where she spent the remainder of her life. Named after a Komoks ancestor, Tesekla was at home in her culture. Being of nobility in her Uncle George Speck's clan, Tese had the name K'iklalaga which meant "she brought an abundance of light to the house." Her standing in the Speck family included a high ranking Red Cedar Bark dance, which she adored and was proud and honoured to perform.
Tese was a passionate individual who loved learning, growing and being with her family. She graduated from GP Vanier in 2002 and represented her peers as a valedictorian; someone who was totally dedicated to study, excellence, and learning. She carried this enthusiasm to North Island College, despite struggling with epilepsy. Tese openly credited her teachers for guiding and helping her to harness and focus her passion. To those who knew Tese she was a bright star, a generous and loving friend.
In the face of her illness, Tese worked vigorously and tirelessly to live a normal life. She placed her family, schooling and the Vancouver Island Music Festival as her priorities. The courage to feel the fear and do it anyway was admired.
She is survived by her parents Joann Restoule, Wedlidi Speck (Deidre Macdonald), sister's Kiwita & Jessie Speck, brothers Klawdee Speck and Allan Bone, and Grandmother Sylvia Restoule of Dokis Bay First Nation, Ontario. Tese had many aunts and uncles, cousins and relatives, far too many to mention. Yet she was loved by them all.
A brilliant star, courageous and passionate woman, loving daughter, sister and friend, Tese will be truly missed.
A community service will be held at the Komoks Band Hall on the Dyke Road on Wednesday, July 28 at 12pm. Refreshments will follow.