Terry Lee Loper

Terry Lee Loper passed away peacefully following a stroke at the age of 80, surrounded by his loving wife and family.

Born on March 10, 1946 at Saint Ann's hospital in La Crosse, WI, Terry was the son of Floyd and Margaret (Stach) Loper. After graduating from Central High School in 1964, he studied at WWTC before enlisting in the U.S. Army. During his military service, he was stationed at various locations around the world.  Following his tour of duty, Terry met and married the love of his life, Nancy Ruth Goldben.  Together they raised three children: Jennifer, Sheila and Trent. Terry’s commitment to service continued throughout his life; he served in the Air Force Reserve, the Wisconsin Army National Guard and the Army Reserve, dedicating a total of 41 years to the service of our country.

Professionally, Terry worked with the Department of Defense as a Government Logistical Specialist. He spent over 30 years in various logistical roles within government agencies, concluding his distinguished career at Fort McCoy, WI.

Terry, Nancy, and the kids lived in Illinois and Wisconsin over the years. They spent their summer weekends camping and enjoying card games as a family. Terry also spent many hours working on cars, tinkering around the house, tending to his plants, and caring for many family pets. 

In 1999 Terry became a Master Mason. He was an active member of numerous Masonic organizations, including the Scottish Rite, York Rite, AMD Masons, Knights Templar High Priests and York Rite College. He received the Knights Templar Cross of Honor in 2008, and the Templar Meritorious Service Award in 2011, in recognition of his extensive dedication to the York Rite bodies.

Terry is survived by his wife Nancy; his children, Jennifer, Sheila (Joel), and Trent (Carly); grandchildren, Justin (Meghan), Corey, Nathan (Zoey), Jayden, Hudson, and Torin; great-grandchildren, Jrue, Oakley, and Noa; sister Rosie (Joe) Flipse; and Aunt Barb Schams. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Diane Rasmussen. 

Terry relished the many hats he wore: husband, dad, grandpa, son, brother, uncle, nephew, colleague, neighbor, and friend, and will be missed by everyone who knew him.  He had a kind and generous spirit, and leaves behind a legacy that his family is proud to carry forward.

A celebration of Terry’s life will be held on Sunday, June 7th, 2:30pm – 6:30pm, at the American Legion Post 100 in Sparta, WI. Service begins at 2:30 with dinner and fellowship to follow. He will be laid to rest at Stoddard Cemetery at a later date. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Terry Lee Loper, please visit our floral store.