JOHN ALLEN TENNY

MIDDLEBURY — John Allen Tenny passed away peacefully at home in Middlebury on May 26, 2025. Born Dec. 6, 1947, in Cleveland, Ohio, to parents Allen and Elizabeth Tenny, John grew up in Chagrin Falls, where he co-captained his high school football team, routinely attended Cleveland Browns games, and helped his father run their local newspaper, the Chagrin Valley Herald. John went on to attend Boston University and moved to Middlebury in 1970, joining his friend, Steve Thomas, Middlebury College class of 1969. Shortly after, he met his wife Madeline (Burke). They married on January 12, 1973, at the Congregational Church of Middlebury and raised their two children, Matthew and Luther.

John learned carpentry, which led him to a successful career in construction. Working initially as the duo of Tenny & Foster, he then joined Weismann & Demong, before becoming eventual owner and president of Mill Bridge Construction. For over 40 years, he and his team of dedicated and talented staff built or renovated numerous churches, Middlebury College buildings, affordable housing developments and childcare facilities, along with dozens of other residential and commercial projects. In the twilight of his career, he joined Silver Maple Construction to continue his passion for project management and mentor the next generation of builders. He was just putting the finishing touches on a few final projects before his retirement and sudden passing.

A strong believer in civic responsibility, John immersed himself in the Middlebury community and dedicated his life to improving the town he loved. He served on the design advisory board and public works committee. In 1995, John joined the Middlebury selectboard, serving as chair for more than a decade. During his tenure, he focused on strengthening the partnership between the town and Middlebury College. John recognized that “Middlebury wouldn’t be what it is without the College.” The College granted John an honorary degree in 2004, with President John McCardell noting that the degree was “a fitting recognition of someone who has exemplified public service for many years.”

John was instrumental in several notable town achievements including the Cross Street bridge, fire station reconstruction, and police department and wastewater treatment plant relocations. John also served for 25 years on the Addison County Community Trust, championing the conservation of land and creating and maintaining affordable housing. Following in his mother’s footsteps, he also focused his attention on the Henry Sheldon Museum and Congregational Church.

You would often see John walking his dog each evening near the Middlebury Rec Park or enjoying a Friday dinner out with Madeline. What you might not have seen was his equal dedication to his family, following his favorite sports teams, and his affinity for pie and ice cream.

John is survived by his wife, Madeline; sister, Suzie (Edward Marshall); children, Matthew (Manon) and Luther (Carey Bass); grandchildren, Addison, Damion, Amelia, and Shelby; and numerous loving in-laws from the Burke, Schondelmeier, and Wilson families.

A memorial service will be held at the Congregational Church of Middlebury on June 14 at 10 a.m. with reception following. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Congregational Church or the Henry Sheldon Museum. ◊