Terry Paul Boenne
June 27, 1950 - July 2, 2021
Terry Boenne, 71, of Mishawaka, Indiana passed away on Friday, July 2nd surrounded by his loving family. Terry was born on June 27th, 1950 in Mishawaka to Elsie (Mostaert) and John Boenne. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents and grandparents, Emiel and Maggie Mostaert.
Terry met the true love of his life, Penny (Heeter) Boenne when he was 17 and she was 15. They essentially spent every day together since that very first day. Terry proposed at Bonnie Doon Drive-In, soon after he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and later married Penny on November 13, 1971. This November they would have celebrated fifty years of marriage. Their life was filled with love and even during the difficult times, they had each other to lean on every step of the way.
Terry was extremely close to his two children, Tracy (Daniel) Skibins and Jon (Angela) Boenne. Terry taught them at a young age the importance of working hard and providing for family. Family always came first to Terry. His world revolved around his three granddaughters Mia and Lana Skibins, and Braxton Boenne. He enjoyed attending school performances and cheering them on during sporting events. His love and devotion to his family was obvious to everyone who knew him.
Terry has numerous friends and family who will miss him, including his brother, Tom (Lynn) Boenne, his nephew Michael (Tammy) Boenne, niece Suzy (Ron) Hubbard and his grand-niece, Brooklyn and grand-nephews, Damon and Payton. He also leaves behind his loving cousins, Tim (Joyce) Boenne and Lynn Mostaert and his wonderful extended Heeter Family.
Terry proudly served in the U.S. Navy, on the USS Dixon. He served in both active duty and reserves. He was employed at Dodge Reliance and Co., with the Parks Dept. for the City of Mishawaka and for the Inn at St. Mary’s. He was awarded several commendations for exemplary work performance during his work and military career. Terry was proud of his Belgian heritage and was a lifelong member of the B.K. Club where he served as the Vice President and Secretary.
Terry was surrounded by love each and every day; he will surely be welcomed in heaven by his dad, who was also his best friend, his adoring mother, and loving grandparents.
His family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to their dear family and friends for their love and support. Thank you also to Hospice, especially to Collin and Travis. Words cannot express what a blessing you’ve been. Thank you to the Mishawaka Fire Department, your kindness was so very appreciated.
The visitation for Terry will be held on Thursday, July 8th, 2021 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, IN 46514.
A Celebration of Life Service for Terry will follow immediately 4:00 pm on Thursday, July 8th, 2021 in the funeral home with Father Jim Bracke, CSC officiating.
The US NAVY and DAV 19 of Elkhart will render Military Honors.
People wishing to honor Terry’s life can make donations to Center for Hospice of Mishawaka or South Bend Animal Resource Center. Condolences may be shared on the funeral home’s website.
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