Terence "Terry" Janssen

Terry Joseph Janssen, lovingly known as “Stick,” passed away on February 23, 2026, at the age of 73. Born on August 1, 1952, in Mitchell, South Dakota, Terry lived a life defined by faith, perseverance, storytelling, friendship, and an enduring love for family and community.

He married Carrie Hofer in 1979 and had two children from this union, Joe and Anne. He married the love of his life, Sherry Almjeld, on 9 July 2016.

Terry was the son of Arnold “Creepy” Janssen and Patricia (Curtin) Janssen and grew up surrounded by strong family ties that remained central throughout his life. He graduated from Emery High School in 1971 before continuing his education at South Dakota State University, earning his bachelor’s degree in 1975.

A gifted athlete, Terry made his mark early on the basketball court. During his high school career, he delivered one of Emery’s most memorable seasons, scoring 131 points across three games and averaging 30 points and 21 rebounds per game. In 1971, Terry and his father were severely injured in a steam engine explosion while preparing for the Mitchell Rodeo Parade. Despite the devastating accident, Terry’s determination never wavered. Through grit and resilience, he fought his way back to pursue his dream of playing basketball for the SDSU Jackrabbits alongside his brother John—earning the Mark Mehlhaf “Most Courageous Come Back Award” in recognition of his remarkable perseverance.

Terry’s professional life reflected both his creativity and his passion for people. He worked as Service Manager for the family business, Janssen Implement, after dedicating years to education as an Industrial Arts teacher and basketball coach in DeSmet, Hurley, and Lake Andes. Whether coaching boys or girls basketball, Terry inspired students not only to compete but to believe in themselves.

His true calling, however, was writing. Encouraged by a high school English teacher who recognized his natural gift with words, Terry became a respected journalist. He served as a sports writer for the Mitchell Daily Republic and later as Managing Editor of the Emery Enterprise and Alexandria Herald for Anderson Publications until his retirement on August 1, 2017. A proud member of the South Dakota Newspaper Association, Terry received multiple First Place honors in 2013, 2014, and 2015 for Best Sports Column, Best Local General Interest Column, and Best Sports Reporting. He was never at a loss for words—whether capturing the excitement of a game or expressing love to those closest to him.

Sports remained one of Terry’s lifelong passions. A devoted fan of the New York Yankees and Chicago Bears, he could recall statistics, plays, and moments from games decades past with astonishing detail. One of his most cherished memories was attending a Yankees game in New York with his children in 2013, where emotion overtook him as he entered the stadium of his beloved team—a perfect reflection of the heartfelt way he experienced life.

Faith and love guided Terry’s daily routine. Each morning began with Bible devotion, followed by a tradition that became legendary among those who knew him best: writing and emailing a love letter to his wife. These quiet acts spoke volumes about the depth of his devotion and the tenderness behind his storytelling spirit.

Terry treasured friendships deeply. Whether reconnecting with former teammates, coaching colleagues, or anyone willing to talk sports—or life—he made lasting connections wherever he went. Once you met Terry, you were a friend for life.

He was also proud to serve as an Associate Member of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1054, supporting fellow veterans and forming meaningful bonds during a memorable trip to Washington, D.C., where visiting the Vietnam Veterans Memorial profoundly moved him.

Terry is survived by his wife Sherry Janssen; children, Joe Janssen (Stephanie), Anne Janssen (partner Annie McMillan), and stepdaughter Kelly Hopson (Kobi); grandchildren Charlie Janssen and step-granddaughter LaReina Hopson; his siblings John Janssen (Brenda), Bill Janssen (Michelle), Kevin Janssen (Pam), Kathy Janssen, and Maureen Janssen; along with countless friends, colleagues, former students, and readers whose lives were enriched by his kindness, humor, and words.

Mass of Christian Burial will be on Monday, March 2, 2026, at Holy Name Church in Watertown, SD, at 10:30 a.m.  The funeral mass will be live-streamed and recorded on our website.

Visitation will be on Sunday, March 1, 2026, from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. at Crawford-Osthus Funeral Chpael in Watertown, SD. A scripture wake service will be held at 3:30 p.m.

Burial will be at St. Martins Cemetery in Emery, SD, on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.  Pallbearers will be Mark Sanden, Al Hegge, Scott Campbell, Jim Campbell, Kobi Hopson, Kevin Petoske, and Ross Petrick. Honorary pallbearers include Chris Janssen, Jeff Arend, Jeff VanLeur, Rich Gerry, Dave Thomas, Peter Dye, and Jerome Jucht.

Terry will be remembered as a devoted family man, loyal friend, passionate storyteller, and man of unwavering faith—someone who lived with heart, resilience, and gratitude every single day. His stories, laughter, and love will live on in all who knew him.

Arrangements by Crawford-Osthus Funeral Chapel www.crawfordosthus.com Watertown and Hayti 

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