Terry Lee Sommerfeld

Terry was born in Alpena, Michigan on September 22, 1939 to Norma and William J. Sommerfeld.  As the eldest of 3 children, Terry was expected to take on significant responsibility through a complicated and challenging early family life. He remained a steadfast support for his brother and sister until his death.

Upon completion of his 2-year service in the U.S. Army, Terry married Barbara Cronk.  Their union produced 2 children, Joie and Bruce. Terry’s education took him from graduation at Alpen High School to the University of Wyoming and Michigan Technical University in Houghton, MI where he majored in civil engineering. After completing his education Terry worked for several county road departments throughout the state of Michigan. Eventually moving the family to Boise, ID for a job opportunity with the Ada County Highway District.  After several years with ACHD Terry accepted a job offer with Morrison Knudeson (MK) where he traveled throughout the U.S. to manage a variety of major projects.  It was during one of these assignments that he met his second wife, Sue.  Terry was a loving father to both of Sue’s daughters, Karen and Abby.  Eventually Terry chose to leave MK, landing in Grand Junction, CO to lead the Mesa County Highway District.  He retired in his 50’s but remained active in the community until his death.

Terry was a strong athlete and enjoyed several competitive sports throughout his lifetime. Through his teens, twenties and thirties he enjoyed playing football, baseball, fast-pitch softball, hockey and golf.  In his later years golf became his primary focus, playing courses throughout the continental US and Hawaii. Terry was an avid sports spectator.  In his later years he followed the Colorado Avalanche Hockey team, watching every game.

During their 30+ years of marriage Terry was a loving and devoted husband to Sue, caring for her through several health issues until her death in March of this year.

 Terry passed peacefully in his sleep on July 7^th.

Terry is preceded in death by his mother Norma, and his father William Sommerfeld; and his wife, Roberta “Sue” Sommerfeld.

He is survived by a sister, Rickie Sue Majeski; a brother, Randy (Carol) Sommerfeld; daughters, Joie (Jim) Burns and Abigayle (Chris) Hislop; son, Bruce Sommerfeld; step-daughter, Karen (Casey) Roberts-Rhoades; 3 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Terry’s name to a local youth athletic group or a hospice organization.