Parmer Mac "Bud" Terry

Bud passed away peacefully at home after a valiant battle with leukemia. Although a cancer diagnosis early in retirement was a shock to him, he didn’t let it define him. He continued to do many things that he loved, including traveling to Florida, keeping beautiful gardens, tinkering at his workbench and watching NASCAR and old westerns. Bud served in the US Navy aboard the USS Columbus from 1966 to 1970, during the Vietnam war. Following his four years in the navy, Bud worked in supply chain management at Brown Company for many years, where he met his wife of 43 years, Rita, who survives. Following the closure of Brown Company, he put his artistic talents to work for Sign Design and Otten’s Trophies. He considered himself lucky to do work that felt like a hobby. Many of his corporate signs still stand throughout the community. Bud was an exceptional bowler and spent over 50 years in the Kalamazoo major leagues, and is listed in the American Bowling Congress for a perfect 300 game in sanctioned bowling. His love of the game led him to coaching junior bowling, which he did for many years. He was also an avid fisherman and loved being on the Michigan lakes and going on Canadian fishing trips with the guys. In addition to his wife, Rita, Bud leaves behind two children; his son Andrew and his daughter, Michelle and her family, which includes his son-in-law Jeff and his grandchildren, of whom he was incredibly proud; Nicholas, J, Courtney (Garett) and Natalie. He was thrilled to learn at Christmastime that he was going to be a great-grandfather this summer. He is also survived by his brothers Manor “Butch” (Gloria), Mike (Susan), and Jeff, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Nate and Vallie Terry and his younger brother Tony. He was a good ‘ol southern boy and according to his wishes, there will be a private family gathering later in the summer, where fishing, grilling and cold beers will celebrate his life. While we weren’t ready to lose him, we are incredibly grateful for the quick response and gentle care provided by Dr. Seagle and the entire staff at Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan, especially to nurse Anne V, who is an angel on earth. Cremation has taken place per Bud’s wishes. The family is being assisted by Avink Funeral Home & Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Ln., Portage, MI 49002. Please visit Bud’s webpage to leave a memory for the family at www.avinkcremation.com. (269)344-5600.