Terry Martinek

Terrance “Terry” Martinek, 68, a longtime resident of Berrien Springs, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, July 23, 2018 where he died from complications.

Terry was born September 17, 1949 in Mitchell, South Dakota to Ernest and Roberta Grady Martinek. In 1967 he graduated from Mitchell High School and later went on to graduate from Dakota Wesleyan University.

On February 19, 1977 he married Sandy Skancke of Mitchell, South Dakota. Together they raised three sons: Preston “P.J.” (Tonya), Andrew and Adam. He especially adored his three grandsons: Lane Martinek, Alex “A.J.” Martinek and Xander Martinek, all of whom survive along with his sons and Sandy. He is also survived by a brother, Greg (Nila) Martinek. He was preceded in death by two brothers, David and Douglas; a sister, Becky Rolfes; his granddaughter, Mikayla Martinek and both his father and mother.

For nearly 30 years Terry was the Assistant Director at the Berrien County Juvenile Center in Berrien Center. He was a longstanding member of the National Juvenile Detention Association and also served as a past President of the association. During his tenure at the Juvenile Center he had a profound effect on the residents who came through the doors over the years, and he influenced many to make positive changes in their lives.

Terry was a passionate supporter and very active in numerous school and sports activities in Berrien Springs. For several years he oversaw the concession stands for both Parks and Rec activities, along with indoor and outdoor sports at Berrien Springs High School. He enjoyed getting to know all those who came to see him while he was working behind the counter and sample his latest culinary creations, albeit his various takes on hot dogs and hamburgers. Furthermore, he was a hard-working member of the Shamrock Booster Club and an active member of the Berrien Springs Parks and Rec Department. Over the years he donated his time helping to build sets for many Berrien Springs Schools drama productions. He also actively supported the local Blossomtime Pageant and Festival in which he assisted in the design and production of stage sets and helped build numerous community floats for Berrien Springs queens. More importantly, he was a friend to many people and an example of courage in the face of many challenging health problems that confronted him over the past several years.

A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, August 2, at Pioneer Memorial Church on the campus of Andrews University. Visitation will be at 3 p.m., immediately followed by a memorial service at 4 p.m. Online messages and memories may be shared at www.allredfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions to a college fund established for Terry’s three grandsons at Honor Credit Union.