Steve’s presence was larger than life. His laughter was contagious and brought joy to all -because everyone heard him. He made a lasting impression on his students, athletes, friends and family. His life spirit will live forever in their hearts. Steve was fiercely competitive and made everyone around him better. Whether it be his overall loudness, sense of humor, sense of fashion, storytelling, one liners, spontaneous adventures, enthusiasm for music, cruising in the convertible, or golf etiquette, he was one of a kind. His strong faith served him well and shined through to the end. Steve P. Terry age 63, arrived for his tee time with God on June 2, 2020.
A private family memorial will be held. After COVID restrictions are lifted we will gather together “Steve Terry style.” He was loved by many and will be missed by many.
In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred in Steve's memory to: UW Stout Athletics, Stepping Stones of Dunn County, Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Menomonie or Mayo Clinic Cancer Center Research.
Condolences
Joseph Clasen
It was a pleasure coach. Thank you for all you did for me and Cassie. As a Coach and student at UWS. Of
Tim & Paul German
Peggy
My brother Paul called me today to tell me that he found out Steve had passed away a while back. We were looking to contact him and get back together for homecoming. Sorry for your loss.
Tim German
Rich & Sheila Spisak
Peggy,
Sheila and I had no idea that Steve had passed. We are so sorry to hear of this bad news. He was always one of my favorites. Please accept these very late condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.....Rich & Sheila
Brian Finder
It was truly wonderful to have Steve as a college instructor, colleague and also a friend. The stories that he told with extreme gusto were always meant to entertain and (possibly) get a point across. It probably goes without saying that Steve changed so many of us for good. Hopefully by now he's given God a good run for his religion out on the back 18.
Kevin Knaus
Steve Terry was a great person and a great coach. I went to call him this morning and looking for his number found this obit. I am saddened beyond saying. I wanted to talk to him about training up the old body to throw javelin again. Like the first day we met when I asked if anyone at Stout had an old javelin I could throw (back in 84) I was older than he was at the time so his head snapped up and his peaked curiosity said, "You throw javelin?" and he quick grabbed a bag of them from the closet and said lets go outside.. I took one warmup toss and he threw his hands in the air and shouted, "YOU'RE ON THE TEAM!" and just like that, I was..turned out I was also in my last year of college sports eligibility and so had my one and only season in college track...loved it. loved the people and to a large degree the tenor and feel of fun and endeavor and striving was set by Steve Terry...I owe him a lot. Stout benefitted a lot from him and I am sure many many more feel the same...God bless his family and him. Rest in Peace Steve. A life well lived. your friend Kevin Knaus
Loring and Pam Stead
Peggy and family
We were so very saddened to hear of Steve’s passing. In reading on his life you will have so many great life’s memories to share. He will truly live through you and the family as well as his teams
indelibly enshrined forever.
GODSPEED
TeamSteadFAST
Dave Sadowski
Sorry to hear that one of my boys from LACROSSE STATE has left us. He may be gone. But will never be forgotten. GOD BLESS THE TERRY FAMILY.
Charlie Krueger
A dynamic personality has left us. Steve was so full of life with so much energy; he seemed invincible. He was a force that shaped much of the athletic change at UW-Stout
Maripat and I send you our deep felt condolences
Glen Majszak
Dear Peggy
I was deeply saddened to hear the news of Steve’s passing. He was the kind of person you could look in the eyes and knew exactly what he was thinking. He wanted you to be the best person you could be. I am thankful for that.
May you find strength and peace in these small words. I wish I could be at his memorial. He will be missed by all who knew him. ????
Glen Majszak
Brian Niehaus
My friend, teacher, mentor and coach 78-82. Steve made a lasting impression with me beyond Stout and through my life. My prayers to you and the family Peggy. Love God, Love people, make a difference, Steve did just that!
Lynn Caldwell
We are sorry to hear about Grease. He will be missed by many people.
Mitzi and Rick Bolin
Peggy, Lauren, Mikaela, and Ciara,
We were so stunned and sorry to hear about Steve's passing. He left way too soon. We can only imagine the void in your lives, and are so glad you have each other and many friends and relatives. We are holding you in our hearts, sending you love and prayers .Mitzi and Rick
Joe Harlan
Steve Terry was a fantastic person, so full of vitality, and his humor and laughter were infectious to everyone around him. He was a great leader, mentor, associate, friend, and most importantly human being. He really cared about people and wanted everyone to be happy.
His teaching, coaching, advising, directing, and collaborating with others touched an incredible number of students, athletes, coaches, co-workers, community members, and family. I learned a lot from him, and still think back to many of these things now.
His wit, wisdom, and storytelling was top-notch. He made an amazing impact on so many people and will be missed dearly. Steve will always hold an important place in my heart and memories. I know this is true for many others as well.
Steve often reminded us to enjoy life more, and have fun with people and experiences. He lived life to it's fullest and we should all do so as we remember him. We will all miss the joy of Steve Terry.
Sending prayers to Peggy, Lauren, Mikaela, and Ciara.
Cindy Bononno Maragos
Dear Peggy and Family, Please accept our deepest thoughts and prayers at this time. Steve was an unforgettable person and is apart of my college memories at UW-L though contact with Wendy Engen and Fred Hauser. May Our Lord sustain you during this difficult time. Cindy and Nick Maragos
Joe Beran
Terry Family,
Coach Terry was an amazing teacher and spirited coach. I had the opportunity to play on his defense back in '84 and 85' and loved his energy. It was always nice to see him at the State Track meet or some other event. I wore a visor all last weekend in his honor. Thoughts have been with you guys. Joe
Bruce and Julie Kuehl
Dear Peggy and your wonderful family,
Our whole family is so saddened and shocked about the news of Steve’s passing. He was such a fun, happy, lively, and humorous man that will be missed by so many. You all are such a wonderful family and can only imagine the pain you are going through.
We will keep you all in our prayers... again we are so sorry for your loss.
Bruce, Julie, Clayton, and Kendra Kuehl.
Laurie McCampbell
Oh dear Peggy and daughters I am truly sorry for your loss of husband and Daddy. He was a personification of being alive on this earth. He did much good in his time here on old planet earth. God can use him equally on the other side. My condolences.
Terry Petrie
the benefits from his retirement from Stout.. May U never 3 putt, hit a ball out of bounds, hit a ball into a sand trap or water in HEAVEN,????️♂️????️♂️????️♂️ God Bless????????????
Kelly Skaff
Larry & Lori, So sorry to hear of your brother's passing. When ever I was up at UW-Stout with my company, Visual Sports Photo, taking the football team photos, I always looked forward to seeing and talking to Steve when he was the Athletic Director. Take care.
Tom Draper
Peggy, I was sorry to hear of your lose. I never met Steve, but after reading so many positive things about him here, he sounds like a Great guy. Having known you from our work places, I know you have a deep belief in our Lord and Savior, that will carrier you and your family thru these sad times. Rejoice, He's Home...again I say Rejoice! Tom Draper
Jill and Dan Heinritz
Dear Peggy and family,
We are so sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. We pray that in the coming days you are comforted by the love of so many. He will always bring a smile to our faces.... such a character with a genuine love of humanity. ❤️Jill and Dan Heinritz
Jeff Kirschling
My deepest sympathies to the Terry family. Steve was truly larger than life. He was a great friend and colleague at UW-Stout and I always enjoyed visits to Johnson Fieldhouse, in particular to catch up with Steve. Truly, Steve was one of a kind and always helped me navigate the administrative waters at UW-Stout.
Dr. Barry Bauer
My sincere condolences to Peggy and the Terry family. It was a sad day when I learned the news of Steve's passing. His enthusiasm, energy, and wisdom imparted during my time at UW Stout will stay with me for the duration. One great memory that I think speaks well of Steve's character: The Tinman Triathelon ran out of T-shirts. Weeks after the event, I was walking on campus and Steve pulled up in his car and asked me if I received my T-shirt yet. Responding not in the affirmative, Steve took off his Tinman T-shirt and tossed it to me. Just wash it before you wear it proud - he said.
Brian Kellett and Kristin Charlton Kellett
Dear Terry Family,
We are so very sorry for your loss. Steve was by far one of the most funny, kind and amazing people we have had the pleasure to have known.
Brian was honored to have Steve, in the 80’s, as his football coach. He was not only a coach but a dear friend. So many great memories. That relationship has lasted for over 30 years. Steve will be missed so much. God bless you all and God Speed Steve.....????❤️
Brian Rude
This was very sad news. My heart breaks for all of you in the Terry family for losing Steve so early. I'll always remember his energy and smile. May good memories sustain you all!
Vicki Parker
My condolences and prayers to the Terry family. Coach was the best Coach, mentor and friend. He always believed in you when you didn't beleive in yourself.
Thank you Coach for the memories. I know you are teeing up the God. Much love
Mike Hetzel
To Peggy and the entire "Grease" family, and Marge and Bill Terry family, Larry and Lori.....It is unfair for a lovable guy like Steve to leave us so early in his life. He was so hospitable when he would play golf with all his Dad's friends,like me, Kusick Sr., F. Millonzi and was always fun. I saw him growing up to be a tremendous success and his personality had a bit of every Terry family member in his demeanor. I do and will cherish those memories. All golf courses in the area of Menomonie should name a hole in honor of one of the" greatest lovers of the game", Steve Terry!
Fred Stark
This is sad day to find out about Steve’s passing. I sold to Steve when he was AD at UW-Stout- it was always a visit filled with many stories and a lot BS! Condolences to the Terry Family.
Jackie Lenser Strutt
I was shocked and saddened to learn of Steve’s passing. Steve, as the rest of the Terry family brought joy to all that they met. My sympathy to Steve’s wife, children, Bill, Marge, Larry, and Lori. May the wonderful memories that you shared give you comfort, as well as knowing that Steve is now in God’s loving arms.
John J Boldt
Steve was the best and I owe him everything. I still remember the recruiting phone call. He got me into school and taught me more about life than I would ever learn in the classroom. Without that phone call I'd probably be digging ditches. He told me once that Track & Field has never been proven to build character...but it will expose it. He was one of four people in this world that had a huge impact on my life. He was the best!
My condolences Steve's family. He will be missed.
UW-Stout Class of 1999
3-Time All-American
John Boldt
Mike kearns
I was a sports broadcaster at WKTY in La Crosse for 46 years. I used to see and talk to Steve at football and basketball games when he was A.D. at U.W. Stout, and I know his brother Larry and his dad Bill. Steve was a great man, and will be missed by all. what was one of Steve's favorite charites?
Condolences,
Mike
David Ophus
Dear Terry family, So sorry to see about Steve's death in the LaCrosse Tribune this morning! Peace and Blessings to you in this sad time!
Keith Noll
Steve was a great mentor to many students. Heaven is a brighter now that he has arrived.
Ruth M Dregne
I was sorry to hear of Steve's passing. He was a neighbor to me in Westby as well as a classmate. I can just hear him laughing as I read his story. Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Dan & Lin Hampton
We are just devastated to hear of Steve's passing. He was one of the most uplifting people we ever knew. He never seemed to have a negative moment in his life. His humor and positive manner were truly infectious. He was truly one of a kind and was loved by all of those who knew him. He will be in our memory for a long time. Our sincere condolescences to Peggy and the girls during this difficult time.
Jim Lake
Peggy,
Kara and I are deeply saddened for your loss. We are so very sorry. We will lift you in our prayers. God bless you.
Jim & Kara Lake
Kristie & Tom Olson
Thoughts and prayers to you all. Steve was such a fun loving kind hearted guy. We always loved seeing him heading to the dump with his convertible filled with - you name it he had it! Hugs!
Kristie & Tom Olson
Thoughts and prayers to you all. Steve was such a fun loving kind hearted guy. We always loved seeing him heading to the dump with his convertible filled with - you name it he had it! Hugs!
Claudia
Dear Peggy and family, I am so deeply saddened by the news of Steve's passing. You will continue to be in our prayers. Love you all, Claudia
Bruce & Cherie Martin
To know Steve Terry was to love him. We have never known someone with a larger zeal for life. Steve made everyone around him feel that same way. His passing is a loss for anyone he came in contact with.
jim knazek
Steve was one of a kind! i will miss him greatly. He was a special friend. my sincere condolences to the entire Terry family. Larry, I still remember your account number from Steve at the Country Club.
Mandy Phillips
Jim & Danielle Shore
Steve, what do we do without that green convertible? To you and your family we send sincere condolences for their/our loss. Thank you for your genuine friendship, leadership and UWS commitment. One day we shall meet again! JIM & DANIELLE SHORE
Chris Hall
I would like to express my deepest sympathies to the Terry Family. His parents, Bill and Marge brought up a terrific son and his spirit is a direct reflection on them. Larry was not only his brother but I believe his closest friend and watching the two of them together was something truly special. To his wife Peggy and daughters Lauren, Michaela and Ciara I thank you for allowing Steve to be so present in the lives of the student athletes he coached and for those of us who worked with him as colleagues.
Steve gave me my first opportunity to lead a college program, a dream of mine that continues to this day. I will always be thankful to him for that opportunity but more importantly the lessons I learned from him in my time at Stout. Steve had an innate ability to make everyone around him feel special and taught us to enjoy life. I have never met anyone who was more joyful. His laugh was infectious, his enthusiasm contagious and whenever he walked into a room a party began. I enjoyed every moment of my time working with Steve and many of my fondest memories come from being around him.
He will be missed but his legacy will remain forever. My heart truly aches for his immediate family but also for the thousands of us that are part of his extended family. My prayers go out to all of you.
Dave and Barb Church
Dave and I sending prayers for comfort for family and friends. We were just talking about seeing Steve years ago.
We knew it was springtime when Steve drove by in his convertible!:)
He always had a big wave and smile.
Sending love and prayers.
Walk by Faith not by Sight.
Barb and Dave Church
Mark Horbinski
Beautiful man. He was the reason I became a Stout Bluedevil. The memories of his eternal optimism, compassionate heart, and goofy laugh will stay with me forever. Prayers and positive thoughts for Coach Terry’s family and friends. ????
Eric Pierce
Dear Peggy and family,
Please know that I'm thinking of you all during this difficult time. Steve has left the game too soon, as it seems the good ones often do. His gregarious good nature and many finished deeds will be reminisced about forever by all that loved and called him a friend. RIP Coach.
Matt and Dana Bessen
There's not much that can be said about Steve that we don't already know. All we can say is that we're better for having had him in our lives. He taught us to live more, love more, have more fun, and keep all of life into perspective. His example proved that it isn't about the "things" in your life, it's about the people and experiences. And above all: be nice. What great wisdom and advice to have as your legacy!
Peggy, Mikaela, Lauren, Ciara and extended family, know that you're all in our thoughts and prayers. Condolences to you all.
Corey and Stacy Hein
We would like to express our sincere condolences to you and your family.
Howie Samb
Our sincerest condolences to the Terry Family. Steve was one of a kind and will be missed by so many people that he positively affected. His smile and is energy was infectious! Hit 'em right down the fairway up there Steve! Howie and Penny
Mark Rothwell (Coach called me Rocky)
To the Terry family, my sincerest condolences for the loss of Steve.
Coach Terry was one of my favorites. He had the right energy to get you out of a tough spot or get you inspired. I enjoy playing for him in Football and ran a bit on his track team. I don’t recall a time that he wasn’t in high spirits, as he exuded unending passion and a true zest for life.
Remembering Coach Terry will always bring back fond memories and a gigantic smile to my face.
I was blessed to have had Coach Terry in my life journey! I look forward to our paths crossing again one day! Sincerely, Mark Rothwell.
Travis Destache
Like many others, Steve gave me my start in athletics and education. For that I will always be grateful. He taught and reminded us all, the importance of fun and play. Never was he afraid to stand up for his friends or his beliefs. Dr. Terry you will be missed. Rest in peace.
Susan Mommsen
Peggy
Please know that my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Jerry Poling
My condolences to your family and extended family. Steve was a bright light wherever he went. He will continue to shine, and his impact will be felt by the multitude of lives he touched. I will always remember his smile, energy and wish I had a cool nickname like that (and was as fast as he was). He will be missed.
Evan Sveum
Wow! Steve is gone!
Condolences to the family... Thoughts and many prayers for Peace...
Steve taught me how to swim! And my siblings and many friends from back in Westby. Steve was also a positive influence in my career at UW-Stout. Spent a lot of time talking about the business of education and college athletics. Steve even spend time with my daughters when they were making decisions to go to college and compete in Track and Field.
Steve made a difference in my life! See you soon Friend! Go Norse! Go Blue Devils!!
Eddie Andrist
You always knew where Steve was even if you could not see him - Even if many golf holes away. His loud and infectious laughter was the light for all of us. Sincere condolences from the Andrist family to the Terry family. The world is a lot less brighter today without Steve Terry.
Steve & Kathy Schloug
Peggy and girls. Sorry for your loss. Steve was one of a kind and a legend is own time. It is impossible to think of him without having positive memories.
Mark Thomas
Thoughts and prayers to the Terry family from the Thomas’. May you find peace in your heart as time passes and cherish the wonderful memories you shared. RIP Steve????????❤️
Lang E. Ware
Having known Steve since his days at LaCrosse, his energy will be missed. As a Stout alum, his leadership was welcoming and contributed to what many now enjoy. His legacy will be as one of our own at Stout. My sincerest condolences to the Terry family. - Lang Ware
Michael Lawrence
The Lawrence family sends it’s condolences to the Terry family. Coach was a unique character in my life who affected me in nothing but a positive way. God bless. Mike Lawrence and family
John L Hardgrove
Steve demonstrated how we should live our lives. Our sympathies to Peggy, his daughters, Marge, Bill, Larry, and extended family. The room was always brighter when Grease was in it.
Good bye, good friend. Thanks for who you were and what you did for so many.
John and Carol Hardgrove
Craig Sandbulte
My deepest condolences to Peggy, Steve's daughters and the entire Terry family.
One of Steve's favorite sayings was "work hard, get out early", but he has left us way too early. I feel extremely fortunate to have been part of Coach T's T&F teams, and then spending many wonderful track seasons in my post T&F life timing track meets with Coach T. Steve's passion for life and living life to the fullest is one of the many things I loved about him. He will be greatly missed by so many, but the memories and impact he made on me and so many others will never be forgotten. RIP Coach T and "Go, Throw, Go".
With sincerest sympathy,
Craig Sandbulte
Michael Wilson
To The Terry Family,
My sincere condolences go out to you and the entire family. I had the pleasure to be coached and mentored by Coach T in football and track. We had a great relationship and he was one of my biggest supporters. I transferred into to Stout from another university and Coach T embraced me as if I had been there from my freshman year. I asked him to be my introduction speaker when I went into the Stout HOF. He graciously accepted and I was there to see him be inducted. I have many great memories of my time with Coach T and his infectious laugh. He always was upbeat even when he seemed upset. One thing that sticks out with me was my last race at nationals my senior year. I only ran track that year and it capped off a great career of football and track for me. I broke down crying because it was all over and Coach consoled me. He was always there to support me. As the only Black athlete on the team that year, he understood how important Diversity and Inclusion was and was an example of what the world should be like today.
He will be missed and my heart is hurting to lose a family member like Coach T. My love and prayers go out to you all.
Mike Wilson
Class of 1991
Track and Football
Mike Deminsky
Athlete, competitor, track star, teacher, card shark, neighbor, friend and champion! You taught us to live life to the fullest. Though you have again finished the race before us, your lessons and spirit will forever live on!
Peace, comfort, joy and laughter to you and yours.....
Jason Lehman
Steve was a great friend, great coach, and just a great person in general. I still remember getting recruited and Steve came to my home. His laugh was contagious and i will always remember all the great times spent during my time at UW Stout because of of him.
