Terry Johannsen Obituary

Terry Johannsen, age 89, of Wilmot, SD, passed away on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, at his home.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Wilmot Lutheran Church in Wilmot, SD. Visitation will be held on Monday, December 30, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Wilmot Lutheran Church followed by a prayer service beginning at 6:00 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Tuesday. Rev. Kay Reeb will officiate, and interment will be at Wilmot Cemetery.

The service will be livestreamed and recorded and will be viewable at the bottom of this page.

Terry George Johannsen was born on November 8, 1935, in Sisseton, SD. He was one of eight children born to George and Anastasia “Ann” (Kotzea) Johannsen. Terry’s early education took place in the country school of Lee Township in Roberts County, SD, where he completed up to eighth grade. He began working on local farms, developing a strong work ethic and a deep connection to the land. 

On August 13, 1955, he married Marlene Cardwell in Wilmot, SD, beginning a life of partnership filled with love and shared experiences. Together, they were blessed with six children.

Following their marriage, Terry worked by seining carp and rough fish on Big Stone Lake. Terry’s career in the automotive industry began at Porter's Garage, followed by working at the Farmer's Co-Op Creamery, and later, at Sturdevant's in Milbank. In 1963, he entered into a partnership with Gerhardt Richter to operate the Chevy Garage in Wilmot, a venture that marked a significant chapter in his professional life. Terry retired from the garage for a little while then started working as a mechanic at Cenex in Wilmot. He ultimately retired after 25 dedicated years at Cenex, continuing to work part-time in the field he loved.

A devoted member of the Wilmot Lutheran Church, Terry served as an usher and Sunday School teacher, reflecting his commitment to faith and community. His spirit of service extended to his 22 years as a member of the Wilmot Fire Department, including a year as Fire Chief. Terry was also actively involved in the Wilmot Community Club, serving as president, and took great pride in his role as a Boy Scout leader, influencing the lives of many young people.

In his younger days, Terry enjoyed playing baseball for the local Wilmot teams, fostering friendships that would last a lifetime. An avid fan of the Minnesota Twins and Vikings, he found joy in cheering for his teams. Terry took joy in sharing the beauty of life’s simple pleasures. He found comfort in the company of nature, and was often seen tending to his yard where he delighted in feeding the birds and squirrels. He took great pride in maintaining a well-kept yard, which served as a testament to his love for his home and nature.

Terry’s love for leisure was equally notable; he relished the quiet moments spent at Lonnie Johannsen's cabin by the lake with Marlene, where laughter and warmth were always in abundance. A true thinker, he enjoyed the daily challenge of crossword puzzles, finding joy in the game and the satisfaction of completing them.

Surviving Terry are his children: Bruce (Becky) Johannsen of Milbank, SD; Julie (Rick) Reyelts of St. Francis, KS; Terry Ray (Darcy) Johannsen of Milbank, SD; and Keith (Jodie) Johannsen of Huron, SD; four grandchildren: Amber Johannsen, Ryan Reyelts, Andrew Johannsen, and Rachel Johannsen; sister, Linda Hermans of Milbank, SD; brother, Lonnie Johannsen of Coon Rapids, MN; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his wife of 69 years, Marlene in September of 2024; his parents; sons: Jeffrey and Randy; sisters: Sherry Kay, Glora Rohlfs, and Marlene Rickard; and brothers: Dennis Johannsen and Lee Allen Johannsen.