Tilden Twp - Terry B. "Ter Bear" Lawer, age 76, of 955 Co Rd PPV (Tilden Twp), passed away peacefully of natural causes on Friday, March 1, 2019 at his home.

Terry was born February 11, 1943 in Negaunee to Henry and Lila (Aho) Lawer. He graduated from National Mine High School, class of 1961. He began working for the Upper Peninsula Power Company right out of high school and retired after 35 years in 1996.

Terry served as the Commander of the Sons of AMVETS Post #122, as the Tiler of the Ishpeming ELKS Lodge #447 where he was also a part of the pasty making group, and as a Board Trustee for Tilden Township. He was a member of the National Mine Reunion Committee as well as the Negaunee Eagles #1944. He could also be found each Christmas being a stand-in for Santa, finding joy in the excitement of all of the kids.

Terry was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother. He is survived by 2 daughters: April Lawer and Holly (Jeremy) Letson, 3 grandchildren: Hunter Peterson, his "Gulu" (Bailey Peterson) and his "Lulu" (Olivia Letson), a sister, Jean Eddy, and numerous nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Robert Lawer, and the love of his life, his wife Elizabeth "Betsy" (Dymond) Lawer, whom he married on March 18, 1978.

Terry or "Ter Bear," as many knew him by, will be remembered for his infectious laugh, for his willingness to help out anyone in need, and most of all for his stories. His sister summed it up perfectly when she said, "He could tell stories…but they were all true!" Through his stories, it was clear that he lived a life filled with many adventures as well as a few shenanigans but also with a lot of love and happiness.

Terry's family will greet relatives and friends from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 10, 2019 at the Faith Lutheran Church, 180 Co. Rd. PPO (Co. Rd. 581 south of Ishpeming), where a Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. with Rev. Stacy Pethke officiating.

A potluck luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall.

Terry's obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.

A recording of Terry's service may be listened to here.