Ivan Tether, Jr.

Westbrook – Ivan Tether, Jr., 76, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2025, after courageously fighting cancer for over a year.

He was born in 1949, on the East Coast, to his parents, Ivan Sr. and Helen Tether. As a child, Ivan attended a one-room schoolhouse and delighted friends and family throughout his life with hilarious stories about those early school days. He grew up swimming in the Delaware River and developed a lifelong love of nature and adventure.

Ivan was a gentleman, a people person, and a calm, steady presence. These qualities enriched his relationships with family and friends, guided his career as an environmental attorney, and inspired his tireless work with nonprofit organizations. His strong faith in God and Jesus was central to his life. Active in his church community, Ivan sang in the choir—where he met the love of his life, Jana.

A graduate of Union and Georgetown, Ivan began his career with the EPA before transitioning into private practice, where his intelligence, integrity, and compassion benefited countless clients. He served as the L.A. Environmental Chair of CIPA and as CIPA’s representative to the California Small Business Alliance, among other professional committees.

Beyond his career, Ivan gave generously of his time and heart. He served on the Board of Directors for HOPE in Venice, California, and My Friend’s Place, a drop-in center for youth without homes in Hollywood. At My Friend’s Place, he co-led weekly improv workshops and coordinated volunteers and food donations from his church for annual holiday celebrations. He also volunteered with the MBU in the Santa Monica Mountains, where he was often found mountain biking and hiking the trails he loved so much.

A word enthusiast and lifelong learner, Ivan spoke English, fluent French (with an impressive French accent!), and conversational Spanish. He had a passion for travel, music and singing, and was an avid storyteller who brought warmth, humor, and perspective to every conversation.

Above all, Ivan was a loving, supportive, and encouraging husband. In Jana’s words, “He was perfect in every way.”

Ivan is survived by his wife, Jana; as well as his brothers-in-law, niece, nephew, cousins, and many cherished friends and extended family. His presence was a joy to all who knew him. He saw the best in everyone, lived life with purpose and compassion, and shared his light generously.

Earth’s loss is Heaven’s gain. Matthew 25:21: “His lord replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant!’”

A Celebration of Life will be held in January 2026. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift in Ivan’s memory to My Friend’s Place, myfriendsplace.org, a nonprofit close to his heart.