Justin Tjelmeland, Age: 46
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Feb 12, 1980---Sep 05, 2026

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Justin Tjelmeland, who left us far too soon at the age of 46. A devoted husband, a profound father, a cherished son. 

As a martial artist, he achieved the rare and prestigious honor for earning a seventh-degree black belt, a milestone that required him to travel directly to South Korea to test before the grandmasters. He channeled the same discipline, focus, and immense heart into his professional life, building both a highly successful Tae Kwon Do school and a thriving daycare business. His true passion was working with children, helping hundreds of young people find their confidence, strength, and purpose over the years. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Shelly, his beloved children, Dylan and Lance, and his devoted parents, Ronald Tjelmeland and Deborah Palmisano. 

His legacy of love, leadership, and community service will live on forever in the hearts of his family, friends, and the countless students he inspired.

 


Condolences

Charlotte Mckinley Sep 08, 2026

Close friend ,Merriam ,Kansas

I am so deeply sorry about the loss of your beloved Justin. My heart goes out to you and your family at this difficult time. He was always so kindhearted and caring, he will definitely be missed by all who knew and loved him. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Sue and Vern Braunschweig Sep 08, 2026

Family ,Leavenworth ,Kansas

So sorry for your loss please reach out if there is anything we can do.

Michele A Sep 08, 2026

TKD FRIEND ,Collinsville ,Illinois

God rest his soul. We traveled to South Korea and Thailand with Master Myungs class. Along with Miss Gates Mr. Lily, Mr. Young, and Debbie Runyon at the time. Back in 2009. Tell me this isn't real

Suprabha Subramoni Sep 08, 2026

He used to be my daughter’s master ,Springfield ,Virginia

So sorry to hear about Master Justin My daugher, Divya used to be his student. May his soul rest in peace

Jane Schmidt Sep 08, 2026

Friend/Aunt of student ,Overland Park ,Kansas

My heart is broken. What an absolute loss. He will always be the amazing Master Justin to me and my family. So wonderful with kids and an absolutely amazing instructor. Sending much love and prayers of peace to his family, friends and past students.

Melissa Sep 08, 2026

Friend/former student ,Kansas City ,Missouri

Oh I’m so sad to hear this! My family all knew Justin as a wonderful person and one of the best TKD instructors imaginable. He was so good with my daughter with special needs, helping her advance to high red belt before we moved away. He led several of his students to participate in the Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunge not once but twice. He is definitely lost way too soon. My condolences to his family and especially his sons.

Zach Couch Sep 08, 2026

Student ,Overland Park ,Kansas

I was Master Justin’s first top student. He put my life on a path of handwork through passion. He truly was my biggest inspiration to me growing up. A lot of my personality and kindness comes from him. I am honestly blessed to have had him and a master. Thank you for making me into the man I am today. - Zach Couch

Karen and Bill Shives Sep 08, 2026

old old friend of Debbie (Justin’s mom) ,Leander, ,Texas

My heart is heavy with the pain you are going through. Wrapping each and everyone of you in my arms, thoughts and prayers. Justin was an amazing young man. I still see him with his pet rat trying to get me to hold it and doing the splits with our daughter. So young to be gone so soon.

Erik Deddens Sep 08, 2026

Friend ,Olathe ,Kansas

We are so shocked and saddened to hear of Justin's passing. Shelly and Justin's home was where both of our kids grew up from infants until they were ready for school. Justin was always kind and welcoming. He will be missed. We send love and hugs especially to Shelly but also send condolences to all the family who are coping with this loss. The Deddens Family

Karen Pattison Sep 09, 2026

Friend/Former Student ,Overland Park ,Kansas

He touched so many lives and help shape my girls into the adults they are today. We were so proud of him when he opened his own TKD Studio, he loved all of his students like they were his own. Sending prayers to his family.

Kerry Menegay Sep 09, 2026

Friend ,Spring Hill ,Kansas

Justin and I trained together under Grandmaster Park in those earlier years of his amazing story. His presence was undeniable. Watching him progress and in awe of the amazing things he accomplished, I'd stop by his dojo once in a while to say hello. He would always encourage me to start training again. My son Jason actually trained under him and enjoyed it tremendously, especially when he could help lead the class in warm-ups and help others. Justin was always so kind, encouraging, and talented. So many will miss him, including my family. Rest in Peace, Justin.

Veeral Bhatt Sep 09, 2026

TKD Student ,Savannah ,Texas

Master Justin was an incredibly sincere and caring instructor and mentor. His efforts helped me greatly and he will be missed. My condolences.

David & Terri Sep 09, 2026

Former students

We are so deeply sorry for your tremendous loss. We are shocked and saddened by the news of his passing. Please know we will keep him and family in our thoughts and prayers.

Vidya Kumar Sep 09, 2026

So sorry to hear the sad news about Master Justin. Both my boys trained under him and loved his classes. Deepest condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace.