Mark J. Terlecke

Our dear brother, uncle and friend Mark passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 17, 2021. Mark was born in Fairbault, Minnesota, on July 9, 1941, to the late John and Ruth Maisel Terlecke. He leaves behind grieving sisters Dianne Scharp (Doug) of Macon, Georgia, Dr. Linda Terlecke of Waukesha, Wisconsin, nephew Paul Scharp (Alexandra) of Plainfield, Indiana, numerous cousins and a tremendous host of friends. Family and friends will always remember him as a generous and caring man. He was eager to help others and accomplished any task he set out to do.

After graduating from UW Madison in 1964 with a degree in Chemical Engineering, he settled down in Madison and Middleton for an accomplished career at Rayovac and Graber (Springs) where he became known for using his creativity and engineering skills to focus on innovations and product improvement, resulting in several US patents. It was at Rayovac that Mark met Alf Bredland, who has remained a steadfast friend, visiting and calling Mark on a regular basis.

Mark was accomplished in several recreational sports playing in several local leagues, both volleyball and softball as well as playing a wicked game of table-tennis. He would often be found along the trout-streams, and used his camper every year for camping up north. Beyond being an avid reader, his social life centered on music. He loved to dance, especially at the Hody Bar and Grill, but even more so, loved playing bluegrass on his self-built banjo in smaller parties with others on guitars and ukuleles; Those were the days! He was known for his easy-going style around people and always with a winning smile, thus easily making friends in many circles, including euchre- and bridge-parties. He was active in Skilaufers for many years, enjoying the many outings; skiing and canoeing up north, club meetings, and their various social activities.

He was always willing to help others, using his considerable knowledge of nature and practical skills to tackle problems where his friends may have struggled.

Unfortunately, Mark endured the results of a stroke for nearly the last decade of his life, limiting his mobility and communication. With the blessings of assistance from his sister Dianne, and the caregivers of Stafford Suites, he was able to make the best of his situation, until the very end; still a smile in his eyes.

We invite all of his friends to remember and cherish the many good times we shared with Mark among us. May he rest in eternal peace.

Family will hold a memorial service at a date to be announced.

Visit www.snowsmacon.com to express condolences.

Arrangements entrusted to Snow's Memorial Chapel, Bass Road.