David M. Terhark

David M. Terhark, age 76 of Highland, IL, passed peacefully in his home on Sunday, January 10, 2021. David was born on March 3, 1944 in Pipestone, MN, the son of Chris R. and Meta T. (nee Brink) Terhark. The family later moved to Elmore, MN where David graduated in 1962 from Elmore High School. After graduation, David enlisted in the US Navy where he was stationed in Adak, Alaska for two years before touring the South Pacific, China, Mediterranean, and Vietnam. During his time in the service, he played lead guitar and sang in a band, allowing him to perform in other countries such as France while porting. He was honorably discharged in 1967 and returned home to Minnesota where he formed a band with his brother Steve. The ‘Terhark Brothers’ played at many venues across the Upper Midwest. On March 3, 1968 he married Emma “Jean” Harris in Graettinger, IA. In 1970, while David was working as a draftsman in Minneapolis, MN, they were blessed with their first child, Kari Ann. The family later moved to Mankato where David and Jean had two more daughters, Kimberly Jean (1973) and Karla Susanne (1980). In 1982 he and his family moved to Highland, IL, where he worked at Basler Electric as a mechanical designer until he retired in 2010. Throughout his life, David had a passion for playing guitar and singing. After moving to Illinois, he continued his singing and guitar playing in church, often accompanied by his daughter Kim. Every family gathering included live music and Dave’s witty commentary, which he was known and loved for. David cherished time with his grandchildren Allyssa, Kolten, and Jace and was thrilled to watch all three of them continue his love of music and guitar. In his retirement, he enjoyed socializing with other veterans who served in Vietnam, and he was a proud member of VFW Post #5694, Highland, IL. He also had a huge heart for animals and rescued many pets over the years. David was a member of Faith Baptist Church, Highland, IL. Survivors include: Wife - Emma "Jean" Terhark, nee Harris, Highland, IL Daughter - Kari A. Terhark, Durham, NC Daughter - Kimberly J. (Michael) Ackerman, Edwardsville, IL Daughter - Karla S. (Andrew) Harrington, Edwardsville, IL Grandchild - Alyssa J. Mettler, New York, NY Grandchild - Kolten T. M. Ackerman, Edwardsville, IL Grandchild - Jace D. Ackerman, Edwardsville, IL Sister - JoAnn Mileham, Elmore, MN Brother - Michael Terhark, Elmore, MN Brother - Gary (DeeDee) Terhark, Sioux City, IA Sister In-Law - Vicki Terhark, Fairmont, MN He was preceded in death by: Father - Christian R. Terhark Mother - Meta T. Terhark, nee Brink Brother - Steven R. Terhark Arrangements are being handled by Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland, IL. David's request is to be cremated and the family will hold a private service at his residence on Tuesday Jan. 12, 2021. There will also be a graveside service with full military honors at Elmore, MN in the Spring with a celebration of life. Memorial contributions may be made to Metro East Humane Society.

David M. Terhark

March 3, 1944 - January 10, 2021