Terry Wayne McCue

Born September 15, 1960, to Delbert Wayne and Marilyn (Howell) McCue, he married Kristina Tisdale on February 9, 2007, in Peoria. She survives.

Also surviving are his stepchildren, Jessica Block, Andrea (John Waremburg) Erps and Philip (Trish Graumann) Erps; four step grandchildren, Aaron Erps, Johnnie Waremburg, Alyssa Waremburg and Dalton Erps; his sisters, Janet (Kevin) Van Dyke and Gerrilynne (Virgil) Hester and his stepmother, Brenda McCue.

He was preceded in death by his father, Delbert McCue, his mother, Marilyn DeWitt and his son-in-law, Marty Block.

Terry graduated from Pekin High School in 1980 and served in the United States Army for three years, where he qualified as a marksman and expert TOW gunner.

Terry was a man who spoke his mind and rarely left anyone wondering where he stood. His straightforward, sometimes blunt nature was as much a part of him as his independent spirit. He was also a skilled negotiator who believed there was almost always room for a better deal. Whether purchasing a vehicle or a motorcycle, Terry enjoyed the art of negotiation almost as much as the purchase itself.

He enjoyed riding motorcycles, photography, and working on projects, especially when he had a willing “gopher” nearby to fetch whatever tool or part he needed next. He also had a tremendous love for animals, which held a special place in his heart throughout his life.

Terry and Kristina shared a love story that began long before their marriage. They first fell in love as teenagers, but circumstances separated them, and life took them in different directions. Twenty-seven years later, they found each other again. What began with a telephone call led to a reunion that rekindled the love they had shared so many years before. Just one week later, they began building a life together.

His first love became his only wife.

A private graveside service will be held at Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. Arrangements have been entrusted with Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.

Memorial contributions can be made to Freedom Paws Service Dogs Foundation, 5407 E Cambron Ave, Chillicothe, Illinois, 61523 orwww.freedompawsservicedogs.org

To express condolences online, visit Preston-Hanley.com