Terry Lee Fisher

Terry Lee Fisher

Terry Lee Fisher, of Freeport, Illinois, passed away on January 24, 2026, after a brave battle with cancer. Terry attended Freeport High School before serving his country in the United States Army and the Illinois Army National Guard. He began his military service in October 1960 at Fort Ord, California, where he trained as a Heavy Weapons Infantryman. After his active duty service, he returned to Illinois and honorably completed his six-year enlistment with the National Guard in 1966. During his time in the service, he earned recognition as a Marksman with the M-1 rifle.

Terry was a dedicated professional who spent over 50 years as a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150. As a skilled heavy equipment operator, he contributed to countless projects throughout his long career. He also demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit by owning and operating his own company, specializing in backhoe, well, and septic services.

Beyond his career, Terry was a man of many passions and constant motion. He always felt most at home near the water, whether living by the river or spending cherished time at a family lake house. In his earlier years, he enjoyed hunting, and his love for animals continued throughout his life, including the years he spent breeding, raising, and showing horses.

He had a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and mechanics, whether he was building and racing lawn mowers or working on old cars and trucks. He took great pride in improving properties for his family, most notably the unique project where he transformed a barn into a family home. Sharing a deep respect for hard work and craftsmanship, Terry greatly appreciated the Amish community and enjoyed visiting them. He was also an avid biker and a sharp Euchre player.

Those who knew Terry well will miss his quick wit and dry sense of humor. He was a man who stayed active—fixing, improving, and building until the very end.

Terry is survived by his daughter, LaLoni Slocum (John); his son, Ryan Fisher (Kimberly); his stepson, Scott Buss; his grandchildren, Julia, Makayla, Austin, and Kinzlee; his step-grandchildren, Blake and Brooke; his great-grandchildren, Isaac, Forrest, and Grayson; his brothers-in-law, Rodney and Dean; and many nieces and nephews.

He will be especially missed by his nephew, Joe; his close friends, Norm and Karen; and his long-time friend, Teresa.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Florence; his sons, Shawn and Ricky; his daughter, Tonya; his brother, Donny; his sister, Betty; and twin sister, Sharon.

Funeral services will be 11:00 am Saturday January 31, 2026 at Burke Tubbs Funeral Home. Chaplain Jeremy Heller will officiate. Visitation 10:00 am until the time of service. Burial will be in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.