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Terrence “Terry” L. Farris, 74, of Williamsburg, passed away the evening of Wednesday, May 17, 2023, peacefully, surrounded by his beloved family. He was born on April 26, 1949, in Dallas, Oregon to the late Jack E. and Dawn Marie (Thayer) Farris. Terry is a graduate of Traverse City Central High School, and married his high school sweetheart, Sandra DeRuiter on October 26, 1968, in Traverse City. Terry worked as a lineman for Davis Electric and later purchased the company in 1986, with his partner, Dusty McDonald. After 16 years Terry and Sandy moved to Florida where Terry started another electric line company, On Power, where he worked until he retired in 2010. Not content to completely retire, Terry continued storm line work until 2022. There were many hurricanes over the past 20 years where Terry participated in the efforts to restore power and clean up communities. The couple enjoyed winters in Cape Coral, Florida, and having their family join them for “fun in the sun”. Terry enjoyed working, going to the beach, hunting, being outdoors and adored his family. Terry always had to be back in Michigan by May, so he could track down the elusive Morel Mushroom. Surviving Terry is his loving wife Sandra, of 54 years; daughters, Tonya (Doug) Thomas and Tina R. Rauch, all of whom reside in Williamsburg; grandchildren, Shelby Rauch, Emily (Brandon) Luck, Bailey (Weston) Hubbell, Casandra Thomas, Harley Rauch, twins, Sarah Thomas, and Elizabeth Thomas, and one great grandson Stetson Hubbell, with another one arriving in August. He is also survived by his brother Chuck (Melissa) Farris and sister Rhonda (Art) Hudson, and many nieces and nephews. Terry served as a past exalted ruler at the Traverse City Elks Lodge, where he enjoyed serving his community. Terry was known for his kindness and generosity by all who knew him. Terry hated to see people sad and could not bear the idea of family and friends standing around crying at a funeral, therefore, respecting his wishes, there will be no funeral arrangements on his behalf. Instead, there will be a celebration of life in Terry’s honor, later this summer at the family’s river property in Missaukee County. Arrangements were provided by Wolfe-O’Neill Funeral Home, our family serving yours. wolfeoneill.com

Tributes

Terrence "Terry" Lee Farris

April 26, 1949 - May 17, 2023