Deputy Ryan Terpsma

Ryan was born two months premature on October 30, 1998, at Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington. He is survived by his loving parents, TJ and Robin Terpsma; his sister, Kylie Terpsma; his grandparents, Karen and Bill Terpsma; and his grandfather, Don Crape.

Ryan attended both Mount Baker High School and Squalicum High School, graduating from Squalicum in 2017. He went on to pursue an associate degree in Criminal Justice at Whatcom Community College. It was during this time that Ryan began turning his lifelong dream of becoming a police officer into reality. He participated in training programs with both the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office and the Bellingham Police Department, gaining valuable experience and taking the first steps toward the career he had always dreamed of.

In November 2025, Ryan made the move to Montana, where he began working for the Flathead County Sheriff's Office as a Corrections/Detention Officer. He was part of Class #191, where his dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence quickly set him apart. During his training, Ryan earned three of the 5 distinguished honors: Head of his Defensive Tactics Class, the Outstanding Officer Award, which was voted on by his peers, and Highest Academic Achievement, placing first overall in his class.

After a year and a half with the Flathead County Sheriff's Office, Ryan was hired by the Lincoln County Sheriff's Department as a Deputy in May 2026. He proudly served his community until his passing on his 28th birthday.

Ryan patrolled his community with pride and made a lasting impression on every person he encountered. He was looking forward to completing his law enforcement training academy in January, and a seat in that class will be held in his honor; a fitting tribute to a dream he worked so hard to achieve.

Those who knew Ryan will remember him for his incredible sense of humor and his ability to find light in any situation. He had a heart of gold and a genuine love for the people around him. Ryan loved his community just as deeply as he loved his family and friends, many of whom quickly became lifelong friends. His laugh was contagious, and he had a way of lighting up every room he walked into.

Ryan's life was defined by his dedication, his kindness, his humor, and his unwavering desire to serve others. Though his time was far too short, the impact he made on his family, friends, colleagues, and community will never be forgotten. The world has lost a fine law enforcement officer, an even better friend, a wonderful son, and the best little brother. Ryan will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.