Terry Vandersnick

Terry Lee Vandersnick, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, moved on to rest in the arms of God on August 6th, 2025, in Albert Lea, Minnesota. He bravely fought a battle with Prostate Cancer for 3 years, doing so gracefully and without complaint.

A visitation will be held Friday August 15th from 4PM-6PM at Bonnerup Funeral Home 2210 E Main St. A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday August 16th, visitation from 12PM-1PM, funeral service 1PM-2PM at St. Theodore Catholic Church 315 E Clark St.

He was born on November 28th, 1946, in Garretson, South Dakota. Terry spent his early years in his hometown before moving to Albert Lea in 1961 at the age of 15, when his parents purchased the Stables Supper Club. He graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1964 and went on to attend Austin Junior College. Even during his school years, Terry demonstrated a strong work ethic—working at Rasco during high school and summers.

He was married to his darling bride, Peggy for 56 years.

While attending college in Austin, Terry worked at Universal and Tire Warehouse before beginning a distinguished 35-year career with the United States Postal Service. Known for his unwavering dedication and reliability, he never missed a single day of work. Terry was not only respected by his colleagues but also cherished by those along his mail routes for his friendly demeanor and dependable service. After retiring from the USPS in 2005, he continued to serve his community by working for Bonnerup Funeral Home for five years and later as a courier for Mayo Clinic for another five years.

In February 1966, Terry was drafted into the military and served honorably in Vietnam from July 1966 to July 1967. He was discharged in February 1968. A proud veteran, he received his Quilt of Valor from The American Legion Post 56 Auxiliary – a recognition that held deep meaning for him. He remained active in veterans' organizations throughout his life as a member of the VFW and American Legion. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and served faithfully as an usher at St. Theodore’s Church for many years.

Terry's life was filled with joy both on land and water. A lifelong lover of lake life, he spent countless hours water skiing, tubing, or simply relaxing on the pontoon. Remarkably, he continued to water ski well into his seventies—skiing at age 75—and took great pride in teaching others how to enjoy the sport he loved so much. His infectious laugh could always be heard echoing across the water or around a card table where he played every Saturday with friends. Weekend card games with Peggy and their circle of friends were a cherished tradition.

Family vacations up north were among Terry’s most treasured times—creating memories that continue to bring smiles and laughter to those who shared them.

Terry is survived by his devoted wife Peggy; daughters Shelly and Dave Lindely, Jeanne and Donn Day, and Amy and Tony Stevens; grandchildren Megan Lindely and fiancé Adam Nelson, Madi Lindely, Natalie Day, Caden "Steve "Stevens, and Carly Stevens, and close family friend, Wade Quam; sisters Nancy Bergen and Ann Fuller. Sister-in-law Nancy Ferche, Brother-in-law, Jerry Hess and his wife Carol, sister-in-law, Jodi Hess; as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends whose lives were brightened by knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his parents Don and Dorothy Vandersnick; brother Paul Vandersnick; brothers-in-law Steve Hess, Glen Fuller, Bob Ferche, and Pat Bergen.

When Terry's father died in 2002, he took on the role of his dad and took excellent care of his mother until her death in 2022. They were quite the pair, going to the casino and having a cocktail.

Terry left behind a legacy of love and laughter—his unmistakable laugh always letting everyone know where he was. His presence brought warmth to every room and joy to every gathering. He was the best father for three daughters and had a special relationship with each of them and they all three picked the best son in laws we could ask for. He was the best ‘girl dad’ before ‘girl dad’ became a thing. He had four granddaughters and one grandson that brought him such joy, and he was a huge part of their lives.

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire kindness, dedication, and joy in those whose lives he touched. Memorial donations may be made to St Croix Hospice or St Theodore Church.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff of St Croix Hospice for the amazing care they provided, especially, Alexa, Erica, and Chaplin Wendy Brown.

What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes a part of us.

The live stream link below is a complimentary service provided by Bonnerup Funeral and Cremation Service.
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