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ESCANABA -- Terry L. Ison, 71, of Escanaba passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 28, following surgical complications.
Terry was a man who lived life to the fullest, loved deeply, laughed often, and left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Terry and his wife, Cindy, shared a lifetime of love and adventure. Their story began 55 years ago in Three Lakes, Wisconsin, and grew into 52 wonderful years of marriage. They were soulmates, sharing an unbreakable bond built on love, devotion, and an unwavering commitment to each other and their family. Together, they built a life filled with cherished memories and a love that remained at the center of everything they did.
As a father to Matt and Krista, Terry's love and dedication to his family were always evident. But perhaps one of his greatest joys was being a grandfather. He was a constant presence in the lives of his four grandchildren, rarely missing a game, performance, or special occasion. When they were young, Terry made a promise to himself that he would be a grandpa his grandchildren would always remember. It was a promise he kept in every way imaginable. His love, encouragement, humor, and unwavering support created memories they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.
Terry co-owned and operated Ison Equipment until his retirement in 1998. After retirement, he was involved in several smaller ventures before fully retiring in 2021.
There was truly never a dull moment with Terry. He had an infectious laugh, a quick wit, and an unforgettable personality. Whether sharing one of his many stories, offering a warm handshake, or greeting someone with his familiar smile, Terry had a way of making people feel welcome. Strangers quickly became friends, and friends often became family. His humor was effortless, often self-deprecating, and his laughter had a way of filling a room.
Beneath that larger-than-life personality was a man with an equally big heart. He was loyal, fair, and generous with his time and support. A steadying force in the lives of those around him, Terry was someone you could turn to for sound advice, an honest opinion, or reassurance when life became difficult. He had a way of putting things into perspective and making even the toughest situations seem manageable.
He believed in doing what was right, standing by the people he loved, and lending a hand to those who needed one, especially when they had nowhere else to turn. If Terry had your back, you knew everything was going to work out fine.
Music was a lifelong passion for Terry. Beginning in his high school years, he played country music throughout northern Wisconsin as a member of the "Honky Tonk Heroes" alongside his lifelong friend, Kirk. His love of music never faded, and in recent years, he found his way back to performing at local venues with "Terry and the Tiki Boys" or "Jim and Tonic," depending on the day. Whatever the name or the occasion, Terry loved sharing his music, his humor, and a good time with those around him.
Terry especially enjoyed bringing family and friends together at "Shorty's," the tiki bar he built on the beach at the home he shared with Cindy. It became a gathering place filled with music, laughter, good stories, and great company--a perfect reflection of the man who created it. For Terry, the best moments in life were often the simplest ones, spent surrounded by the people he loved.
Terry had a remarkable gift for making life a little more enjoyable for everyone around him. He was funny, welcoming, compassionate, and genuinely interested in others. He lived with a generous spirit, a strong sense of loyalty, and a deep appreciation for family and friendship.
He will be remembered for his infectious laugh, his warm handshake, his unforgettable stories, and the way he made everyone feel like they belonged. Above all, he will be remembered for the love he gave so freely and the countless lives he touched along the way.
He is survived by his wife Cindy, Daughter Krista (Tim) Gorenchan, Son Matt (Terra) Ison, grandchildren Carly and Chase Gorenchan and Alex and Brody Ison. Brother Al (Darby) Ison, sisters Sue (Mike) Nelson and Becky Ison, Brothers-in-law Jim and Terry (JoAnne) Corbel. Step Mother Mae Ison, Step Siblings Ann (Barry) Mihalko and Ted (Sandy) Frank and numerous nieces and nephews
Terry will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever loved. In lieu of flowers, it is requested that remembrances or stories of Terry be written down and sent to the family so they can be compiled.
A celebration of Terry's life will be held at the Elk's Club in Escanaba on Saturday, November 28 from 12-4 p.m.