Terrance Pflipsen Obituary

Terrance "Terry" Harold Pflipsen, 76, of Avon, passed away Aug. 10, 2025, at the St. Cloud Hospital.
Terry was born Nov. 7, 1948, in St. Cloud, Minnesota, to Harold and Alice (Smith) Pflipsen. From an early age, he was known for his strong work ethic, generous spirit and love for the outdoors. He grew up in Avon and built his life there.
He married Diane Irene Raden Oct. 16, 1971, and together they shared 52 beautiful years of marriage. Terry was a devoted husband, father, papa and friend. He took great pride in everything he did, from his career and military service, to his volunteer work and dedication to his community.
Terry began his career at Hanauer Machine (now Columbia Gear) in 1965 as a machinist. After two years, he entered the United States Army, serving honorably during the Vietnam Conflict as well as a tour in Panama. Upon his return, he worked for the railroad and at DeZurik before returning to Columbia Gear in Avon. Over his 45 years of service at Columbia Gear, he held many positions, including machinist, foreman, supervisor and senior buyer. He retired in 2017 after forming many lifelong friendships with his coworkers.
Terry loved the community of Avon. It was where he was born and raised, and he gave back to his community in countless ways over the years. He served as a part-time police officer for the city of Avon beginning in 1978, and from 1989 to 1997 he served on the Avon City Council before being elected mayor, a position he held until 2002. As an avid marksman and hunter, Terry volunteered for 25 years with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Youth Firearm Safety Program, teaching proper firearm handling and safety to the next generation of hunters. In line with his passion for hunting and firearms, Terry owned and operated T.D. Gunsmith for 20 years.
His dedication and integrity left a lasting impact on everyone he worked with, served with, taught and befriended.
Outside of work, Terry enjoyed many hobbies, most of which involved his family - classic cars, automotive repair, hunting, fishing, camping and traveling to California and Oklahoma. If it involved being with family, Terry was there.
Terry is survived by his wife, Diane; children Dustin (Kendra) Pflipsen and Ember (Randy) Tamm; grandchildren Brooke (Brayden Cordes) Tamm, Coltin (Emily) Pflipsen and Riley Pflipsen; siblings Ruth (John Cofell) Pflipsen, in-laws Leroy (Mary Lou) Raden and Odie (Steve) Goward; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Alice Pflipsen; grandson Jackson Pflipsen; in-laws; Elizabeth "Betty" Raden, Eileen Nathe, Frank "Olie" Nathe, Ronald "Ronnie" Raden, David Raden, Danny Raden, Jeffrey Raden, Gloria Smith and Jerome "Pete" Smith.
A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 12, at St. Benedict's Church in Avon, with visitation beginning at 9 a.m. Interment will follow at Camp Ripley.
The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff at the VA Health Center in St. Cloud for their care and compassion.
Terry will be remembered for his kind heart, unwavering devotion to his family and the joy he brought to those lucky enough to know him. His legacy will live on in the love he shared and the lives he touched.

"Our Country is in Mourning, A Veteran Died Today."