Timothy Leo Terry

A man of honor, integrity, and compassion, Timothy Terry was a blessing to countless others. He was a bit of a free spirit who wasn’t afraid to do things his own way, and he was the ultimate jokester as well. A more devoted father would be hard to find as it was clear to see that Tim’s children were the light of his life. He was generous whenever the opportunity arose, and he didn’t think twice about going without in order to meet the need of another. Fun-loving, hardworking, and outgoing, Tim will be dearly missed while his memory is forever cherished.

The 1950s were a vibrant time in American history. Civil rights came front and center when Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on an Alabama bus, which brought tension to every city and town all across our great land. Elvis Presley transformed the world of music with his rock ‘n roll sounds while James Dean made young girls swoon. Amidst this vibrant time was the year 1957 that was filled with great anticipation for one young couple from Salem, Wisconsin, as they were eagerly awaiting the birth of their baby as summer dawned. Their wait was over on June 16th when the baby boy they named Timothy Leo made his arrival at Burlington Memorial Hospital. He was the youngest of three children born to his parents, Bernard ” Barney” and Vida “Vi” (Smith)Terry, and he was raised in the family home alongside his brother, Fred, and his sister, Carmen “Camie.”

In many ways Tim experienced a childhood that was reflective of the times. Although his initials were T.L.T., his parents often joked that they should have named him something with the initials of T.N.T. as he had quite the adventurous and explosive side. At the same time, Tim was also caring, loving, and always willing to help in any way. He was a jokester right from the start, which would be a trait that would remain with him throughout his life. Tim developed a strong work ethic by watching the things his parents did. It was not uncommon for him to work alongside his father on his construction jobs or to help out around the house. Tim enjoyed playing baseball and snowmobiling. He served Mass and was a student at St. Francis Xavier Grade School. His high school years found him at Salem Central High School where he played both baseball and basketball. Tim went on to graduate from high school.

While growing up Tim discovered his love for motorcycles, and he never looked back. He followed this passion by attending a technical school in Illinois for motorcycle repair. In April of 1978, Tim and his good friend, Larry Murphy, followed their passion for motorcycle riding all the way to Arizona where they could ride year round. Although the pair initially arrived in Phoenix, Larry remained and Tim later settled in Tucson. Tim found work repairing motorcycles and later became was the parts manager at Arizona Honda Motorcycle.

Life truly began for Tim when he married Joyce and was blessed with two children, January “Jet” and Andrew. Tim was forever grateful for the children they shared.

As a father Tim was second to none. He was a great provider who supplied his children with everything they needed – and more. They enjoyed vacations every other year, and Tim also saw to it that his children were able to go on trips with their church youth group and also with their high school. He was a jokester with his children, too, even to the point of being downright goofy. Like his own father had been, Tim was an amazing mentor to his son, Andrew. He taught him all about turning wrenches on motorcycles, and motorcycles became a passion that they two of them shared together.

Life became more difficult for Tim as a result of a near motorcycle accident in 2000. He was able to avoid a serious accident by laying his bike down, but by doing so he injured his leg. Tim struggled to get on top of his injuries as they never seemed to want to heal. It was these injuries that eventually left him unable to work. Tim was devastated with the death of his father in November of 2011, and suffering such a loss only added further strain to the health struggles he had already been experiencing. In some ways it seems fitting that Tim drew his last breath on his father’s birthday as he was such a monumental part of Tim’s life.

All who knew Timothy Terry would agree that he touched everyone he met in such a special way. He was selfless, never wanting to inconvenience anyone or to cause others to worry, especially where his family was concerned. It was no secret that Tim lived and breathed for his kids, and he taught them invaluable lessons about what it means to live a life of purpose. Although he could be stubborn, it was only when it came to matters that he was passionate about, which is one of the things that made him such an extraordinary man. Tim leaves behind a timeless legacy that will live on in the hearts and lives of those who were blessed to feel his touch.

Timothy L. Terry, of Tucson, AZ and formerly of Salem, WI, died on September 7, 2013. Tim’s family includes his wife Joyce, children, January “Jet” (Dan) Multhup and Andrew Terry; grandchildren, Madelyn and Timothy Joseph “TJ” Multhup; mother, Vi; siblings, Fred (Sharon) Terry and Carmen “Camie” (Jerry) Camp; and other relatives and friends. Tim was preceded in death by his father, Barney. Family and friends will gather Saturday, November 16, 2013, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church 1704 240th Avenue Brighton, WI from 10:00 a.m. until time of the Memorial mass at 11:00 a.m. Inurnment to follow at St Francis Xavier Cemetery. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com to leave a memory or sign the online guestbook.