Terry L. Pelzel

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Terry L. Pelzel, who died peacefully at home on August 16, 2026, at the age of 77, after a courageous nine-year battle with prostate cancer.
Terry was born on December 21, 1948, in Plum City, Wisconsin, to Edward and Olivia (Lecheler) Pelzel. He was raised on the family farm in Rock Elm Township, where he learned the values of hard work, humility, faith, and service to others that would guide him throughout his life.
Terry graduated from Elmwood High School in 1967. Shortly thereafter, he was drafted into the United States Army and proudly served his country during the Vietnam War era while stationed in Korea. His military service instilled in him a lasting sense of duty and commitment to community.
On August 2, 1975, Terry married the love of his life, Denise Pelzel (VanSchoonhoven). Together they built a marriage grounded in faith, love, and commitment, sharing 51 years of marriage. They raised three sons in the Plum City community, instilling in them the same values of service, hard work, and family that guided Terry throughout his life.
Terry held a variety of jobs, including driving trucks and working at a parts dealership. Determined to further his education, expand his opportunities, and support his family, he returned to school and earned an Associate Degree in Business Administration from Rasmussen Business College in December 1983.
In 1984, Terry began his career at Normandale Community College in Bloomington, Minnesota. Through hard work and dedication, he advanced from a position in the mailroom to become a manager in the purchasing department. During his 28-year career at Normandale, he earned the respect of colleagues for his reliability, integrity, and strong work ethic. Being part of the Plum City community was so important to Terry that, rather than relocate closer to work, he chose to make the 75-minute commute each way between Plum City and Bloomington. Over nearly three decades, he made the round trip roughly 6,000 times, a testament to his devotion to the community, church, family, and small-town way of life he cherished.
Faith played a central role in Terry's life. He devoted countless hours of service to St. John the Baptist Parish in Plum City, where he served in numerous capacities over the years, including Parish Council member, Sacred Worship Committee member, Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (CCD) teacher, lector, extraordinary minister, altar server, usher, and money counter. He was also a proud member of the Knights of Columbus.
Terry's commitment to service extended well beyond his church. He was an active member of American Legion Post 365 in Plum City, holding several leadership roles, including Treasurer and Commander. Whether supporting fellow veterans, volunteering at the food pantry, serving his parish, or helping local organizations, Terry generously gave his time to help others.
Terry's achievements and service reflected the kind of man he was. Quiet and humble by nature, he never sought recognition for his efforts. Instead, he led by example. Friends, family, neighbors, fellow parishioners, and veterans knew they could always count on him. Whether helping with household projects, giving someone a ride to an appointment, lending a hand when needed, or simply offering steady support, Terry was always willing to serve others without expecting anything in return.
Terry enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. He was an avid fan of Wisconsin sports teams and could often be found with a Brewers game playing on the radio or television. He enjoyed fishing, bowling, and working on projects around the house. One of his favorite pastimes was taking walks with Denise and enjoying time with family and friends.
Above all, Terry cherished his role as husband, father, and grandfather. Nothing brought him greater pride than watching his children and grandchildren grow. His presence at family gatherings, his quiet encouragement, and his unwavering support will be deeply missed.
Terry is survived by his beloved wife, Denise Pelzel (VanSchoonhoven); his sons Mike (Lisa) Pelzel, Scott (Casey) Pelzel, and Brice (Mary) Pelzel; his cherished grandchildren Jarrod, Ava, Riley, Mason, and Madelyn; his siblings Kathy (Bruce) Dehnke, Dan (Sue) Pelzel, Jeff Pelzel, and Roger (Sheila) Pelzel; his in-laws Nancy Pelzel, Chuck (Mary) VanSchoonhoven, Lori (David) Klein, Gary (Karen) VanSchoohhoven, and Rhonda (Troy) Gansluckner; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, fellow parishioners, veterans, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Olivia Pelzel; his brother, Ed Pelzel; and his sister, Pat Pelzel-Peterson.
Visitation will be held on Friday, August 21, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Rhiel Funeral Home in Durand. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at St. John the Baptist Parish in Plum City. Following the mass a celebration of life will be held at Molly’s on Main in Plum City.
"Well done, good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:23
Rhiel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Durand, is serving the family.
Condolences may be made online at www.rhielfuneralhome.com.