Terrance Allen Piriczky

Terrance Allen Piriczky, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away surrounded by his family. Born on July 3, 1954, in St. Paul, Minnesota, Terry was the son of Delores and Richard Piriczky. A lifelong fan of the Minnesota Twins, the Minnesota Vikings, and the Ohio State Buckeyes, his love of sports was evident from an early age. Terry excelled on the baseball diamond as the catcher for the Clay High School Eagles, where his exceptional skill and leadership behind the plate earned him a place in the Kansas City Royals organization after graduation.

After suffering an injury during spring training with the Royals, Terrance redirected his path to service. In 1972, at just 18 years old, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, a decision that would define much of his life and character. He completed basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, followed by a year of technical school in cryptology at Sheppard AFB, where he earned a Top-Secret clearance. Over a distinguished 12-year career (1972–1984), Terrance rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-5) and served his country with honor and dedication.

Terry married his high school sweetheart, Debra, in May 1973, beginning a 52-year love story rooted in laughter, adventure, and family. Terry wrote about one of his fondest memories: “We (he and Deb) were leaving Andrews Air Force Base for the final time, driving a Jeep with the top down beneath blooming cherry blossoms, then looking out over the White House, it was a grand farewell. When we returned home, we were faced with new challenges, with layoffs, high inflation, and few job opportunities in Toledo. Amid all that uncertainty came the joyful news that Deb was pregnant and expecting our first child.” Together, they built a beautiful family, which grew to include three children and nine grandchildren: the pride of Terry’s life.

Terry loved simple pleasures: the warmth of the sun, the power of a summer storm, a trip to the bay, and a vanilla cone from Mel-O-Cream. He had a special fondness for swimming, entertaining friends and family, and enjoying a margarita on a sunny afternoon. Known for his gentle spirit and generous heart, Terry never had a negative word to say and was always ready to help anyone in need.

Terrance was preceded in death by his parents, Delores and Richard. He is survived by his devoted wife, Debra, with whom he shared 52 wonderful years; his sisters Jackie Piriczky-Hill and Cindy (Ed) Brewer; and his children Chad (Mary) Piriczky and their children Claire and Charles; Brooke (Anthony) Varwig and their children Hallie, Bryson, Josephine, Gia, and Brynn; and Hollie (Jeremy) Hartle and their children Gabriella and Garrett.

Terrance’s legacy is one of kindness, loyalty, and love. His laughter, wisdom, and steady presence will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Family and friends are invited to honor and celebrate Terry’s life with the family on Friday, October 10th at Walker Funeral Home on Navarre Avenue. Showing and final goodbye will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., a short ceremony at 6pm and a wake and celebration of Terry’s life will follow at Paddy Joe’s in Oregon beginning at 6:30 p.m.