Terry L. Skrivseth, 84, of Bellevue, Iowa, and formerly of Maquoketa, passed away peacefully surrounded by the family he cherished so deeply on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Terry Lee Skrivseth was born on November 7, 1941, in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Henning D. “Bud” and Marian C. (Sagers) Skrivseth. He was a 1959 graduate of Maquoketa High School and then attended Drake University in Des Moines. He served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, earning an honorable discharge. On January 29, 1966, he married the love of his life, Bonita L. “Bonnie” Claus, in Maquoketa, Iowa. Together, they shared 60 years of marriage, building a life filled with family, laughter, and countless memories.

Over the years, Terry worked as the advertising manager for the Independence (Iowa) Newspaper and then returned to Maquoketa, where he and Bonnie owned and operated Snow White Paint Store for many years. Terry later retired as the warehouse manager for International Paper in Davenport, Iowa.

Terry was known for his outgoing personality and quick wit, joking right up until the very end. His laughter reflected his love of life and his joy in making others laugh. He had a long list of hobbies, but his greatest passions were his horses and harness racing, days spent out on the water boating, and golfing.

For 60 years, Bonnie was Terry’s wife, best friend, and partner in life. He loved her deeply and was happiest when they were together. Their marriage was built on love, laughter, loyalty, and a lifetime of shared experiences. Their home on the river in Bellevue was a place filled with family, memories, and togetherness.

Terry treasured time with family and friends, especially his role as a father and “Papa.” He rarely missed his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events, where his cheers and encouragement could always be found. He was incredibly proud of each of them, celebrating their accomplishments and bragging about them to anyone who would listen. Terry’s absence leaves a space that can never be filled, but his laughter, kindness, and love will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his stories and jokes will be told for generations to come.

A loyal sports fan, Terry enthusiastically rooted for the Minnesota Vikings, the Iowa Hawkeyes, the Monmouth College Fighting Scots, and the St. Louis Cardinals. He was more than a husband, father, “Papa,” and friend—he was the heart of every gathering, the teller of the best stories, and the first to make you laugh until your cheeks hurt. Whether he was telling jokes or singing songs from the “Skrivseth setlist,” Terry brought joy and light to every moment.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife of 60 years, Bonnie Skrivseth of Bellevue, Iowa; children, Kim (John) Rollinger of Ankeny, Iowa, Mary (Darrin) Baltzell of Clearwater, Florida, Kelly (Max) Rawson of Verona, Wisconsin, and Todd (Sarah) Skrivseth of Monmouth, Illinois; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Lori Skrivseth of Preston, Iowa; sisters, Sharon Bullock of West Des Moines, Iowa, Kathie (Chuck) Whitsell of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, Carol (Rich) Kendall of Marion, Iowa, and Christy (Dean) Thomas of Lake Barrington, Illinois; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his best friend and brother, Ritch Skrivseth.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating Terry’s life will be held from 4 to 6 P.M., Friday, September 11, 2026, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. An informal time of sharing will take place at 6 P.M. Cremation rites have been accorded. A private burial will be held at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Terry L. Skrivseth memorial fund has been established.

Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.