It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Tannis L. Anderson-Bence, who passed away peacefully on August 25, 2026, surrounded by her loving husband and family.
Born in Richmond, British Columbia, and raised in Surrey and later Delta, Tannis was the eldest of three sisters. From a young age, Tannis was an athlete. She enjoyed playing soccer, with her mother, Diane, as her coach, and also played field hockey. She had a deep love for animals and cherished the time she spent with her grandmother on the family farm, where she helped raise sheep. That love for animals continued throughout her life, and she later opened her home to two rescue dogs and a cat in need of loving homes.
After high school, Tannis studied hospitality. Her education and natural ability to connect with people served her well when she moved to Edinburgh, Scotland, where she helped establish a Jurys Hotel. She lived in Scotland for more than a year and created many fond memories during her time there.
Upon returning to Canada, Tannis moved back to her grandmother’s farm and pursued studies in crop management. She loved working on the farm while completing her studies while working as a crop consultant. Tannis was a dedicated and hardworking woman who took pride in everything she did.
In 2017, Tannis decided she wanted to purchase a tiny home in Delta for her farm. It was during that process that she met her lifelong partner, Michael Anderson, through her neighbour, Shannon Persse. After purchasing her tiny home, Tannis needed a carpenter, and Michael came to the rescue. What began as a helping hand quickly became a love story. The couple went on a date, and the rest, as they say, is history.
After spending a year together in British Columbia, Tannis and Michael decided to move to Windsor, Ontario, where they built a life together. Tannis obtained her real estate license, which would later serve her well as she supported Michael in his business. Tannis also worked in the insurance industry, where she formed many meaningful friendships with her colleagues.
Tannis will be remembered as a woman who always put others before herself. She had a generous heart and was constantly giving love and kindness to those around her. She cared deeply about people and would go out of her way to help anyone in need. She was a hard worker, a wonderful cook, and took great pleasure in preparing special meals for her husband, rarely putting herself first.
Tannis and Michael also shared a love for new adventures, whether pursuing a business venture or enjoying a weekend away together. Tannis especially loved Ireland as a destination and often dreamed of one day moving there with Michael.
After nine wonderful years together, Tannis and Michael were married on March 17, 2026. To say it was one of the happiest days of their lives would be an understatement. Their marriage was a celebration of the love and life they had built together.
Tannis will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by her husband, Michael; her parents, Shawn and Diane Bence; her sisters, Shannon (Warren) Roberts of Vancouver Island and Alannah Bence; her nephew, Raylen; and her nieces, Riley and Madeline. She will also be greatly missed by her grandparents, Paula Bence and Elaine Whittaker; her mother-in-law, Iris Anderson – Pendergast; her brothers-in-law and sister-in-law; and their children. Tannis will also be lovingly remembered by her dear friend, Lindsay, and by the many people whose lives she touched.
Tannis shared a special love for animals and will be deeply missed by her beloved pets, Rory the cat, and the dogs Liam and Fintan. She was also predeceased by her cherished cat, Esme, who was an important part of her life and family.
She was predeceased by her grandfathers, Jack Bence and Gary Whittaker.
Tannis leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, compassion, generosity, and devotion to the people and animals she cared for. She will forever remain in the hearts of all those who knew and loved her.
Celebration of Life
A celebration of Tannis’ life will take place at Windsor Chapel Funeral Home – South Chapel, located at 3048 Dougall Avenue, Windsor, Ontario, on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. A service will be held in the chapel at 5:00 p.m.
Interment will be private.
