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Ken and Diane Terhune Obituary

The bodies of Ken and Diane Terhune were discovered Thursday, Jan. 15, 2008, at their home in the Del Rio development north of Modesto, Calif. Mr. Terhune was 65, Mrs. Terhune was 56. Their deaths are being investigated as homicides, and their son Cameron, 24, was in custody. Their 16-year-old son, Elliott, also survives them. A native of Pennsylvania, Ken attended Shippensburg State College (now Shippensburg University), and came to California in the early 1970s. He and Diane, who celebrated their 30th anniversary Nov. 5, were married in Sacramento in 1978. They lived in Walnut Creek, where he worked as a representative for various New York-based publishing companies and later for a paperback book distributor based in Reno, family friend Genton said. They moved to Modesto in the early 1990s. They moved to the Del Rio development in 1994. The couple started Vintage Concepts, marketing wine industry-related products through what eventually grew into an online and mail-order business.

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Published by Modesto Bee from Jan. 17 to Feb. 22, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Ken and Diane Terhune

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Doug Arters

December 25, 2022

Ken's desk was about 6 feet away from mine in personnel at Ft. Stevens, MA. He was friends SSG Wade Collier. Ken lived off-post in Fitchburg.

Doug Arters

October 14, 2016

I knew Ken when on active duty at Ft. Devens, MA: in fact, his desk was about 5 - 6 feet from mine in Classification & Assignment Branch, with the US Army Security Agency. A good friend of Ken's was SSG Wade Collier. It was quite a shock to hear of his passing.... Ken worked with Rolland Ostrom. Our unit sergeant was SFC Raymond Phelps, who later transferred to Vietnam and came back a master sergeant. Rolland got out in 1967, when I got out in February 1968, so Ken must have discharged sometime later in 1968. So sorry to hear of passing....

Lisa Trejo

March 10, 2010

I didn't know you two, but I wish I had words to lighten your agony, but sometimes words are not enough. Please know that you are amongst the most beautiful angels above us all and in good company. Ken and Diane, you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Katee Hudson

July 20, 2009

I miss them so much... I always drive down the same road and pull up ti their house just so i can see it one more time. I think about them and miss them everyday. they were my mom and dad too... Elliott has been my best friend since kindergarten. I will always miss running through the house looking at all of his baby pictures. I will always remember racing Elliott to the trampoline and pushing him into the pool and watching movies in the pool room.
I have so many memories with them. I wish they were here to see how happy Elliott and I are together; his mom always knew we'd end up together someday.
I miss my mom and my dad so much. I know Elliott does too. He knew how great they were. They were the greatest people I've ever known.

Mary Galindo

February 22, 2009

As days pass I miss ever more my friends. I just purchased a new Diana Kralls DVD Diane and Ken would love and wanted to buy one for them too. And wouldn't Diane like this bottle of wine? She'd often sat Sharron and I down to a glass along with a sample of some new appetizer. My husband won't be sharing his freshly smoked sturgeon with Ken.I loved purchasing items from vintage Concepts and pestering Diane about what's new. No more will we be competing with Elliot for the "goodies" in the 'frig, the cupboards,and yes even the kitchen drawers (Diane kept an abundance). Every Friday Sharron and I cannot pass their driveway without pulling our cars in for a moment of reflection. Wow, Someone's caring for their beautiful landscape! Diane and Ken fought hard to keep those majestic oak trees healthy. Oh,what sadness, Mary

JOSHUA WILMOTH

February 16, 2009

MY THOUGHT'S AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS.WHAT A TRAGEDY!!

Brittany Robinson

February 9, 2009

***My thoughts and prayers go out to all of the family and friends that were a special part of Ken and Diane's lives. May memories comfort you and God watch over all of you during this difficult tragedy***

gail hunter

February 7, 2009

so sorry for this awful nightmare to happen to these wonderful people god bless all

Sue Sanchez

February 3, 2009

May God Bless and comfort all ....

Kris

February 3, 2009

I did know Ken and Diane personally, but I spoke to them often on the phone. I purchased Winelights from them for the last 2 years. They were both so nice and pleasant to talk to. I always looked forward to ordering from them because it gave me a reason to speak to them and say 'Hi'. They were great people, professionally and personally. I will always miss them.

bette wilkinson

February 1, 2009

we didnt know Ken and Diane ,but our love goes out to to all family and friends,may God Bless

lacie martinez

February 1, 2009

i am so sorry may GOD protect you

Sandi Caldwell

January 31, 2009

Dear Ells,
Steve and I are heartbroken over the loss of our two dear friends. We saw them last summer for the Boz Skagg concert. We had a great visit and your Dad was so happy to have his Motor Home.

We have shared many holidays with you and your brother. Your Mom was always concerned that we have a place to go and be with family. I talked with her just before Thanksgiving. We thought of you all as our family and I want you to know that.

Every time we use the boat, (that we bought from your Mom & Dad) we will think of you & your parents and say a prayer that God is with you and helping you cope with all of the sadness.

If you feel up to it, please call us sometime so that we know you are all right (209)795-5814.

Love, Steve & Sandi Caldwell

Wade & Marcy Collier

January 30, 2009

We have been on vacation for over a week, but to say that hearing the news of the death of Ken and Diane today was a shock is probably the understatement of a lifetime. Elliott, Marcy and I can only echo all the other friends of your parents in saying we are beyond sorry for your loss, and our own. Ken and Wade served in the Army together at Fort Devens, Mass. in the 1960s, and have kept in touch through the years. Ken came to our wedding in NYC in 1971, and we finally met Diane in person when we were able to visit Modesto and Yosemite in August 2006. Wade had talked to Diane by phone several times over the years, but when Marcy met her it was like they had known each other as long as Ken and Wade. We had a wonderful visit, as everyone who visited their home must have. I have lost my "best" friend, but in reading these expressions of sympathy I can see again that Ken was everyone's best friend. We can only wonder, "Why, why, why?"

Tiffany Fernandez

January 28, 2009

Elliotto - I don't know what to say. I am so sorry. Your parents will be greatly missed. I don't know what my mom will do without Diane. She was her best friend. We loved having you here last summer and if you want to come stay with Mark, Aquiles, and I, our door is open to you... If you just want to get away from it all, we are here. I am so so sorry. Our thoughts and hearts are with you.

Cheryl Lungren

January 28, 2009

Elliott - I am so sorry for your loss. Your parents were truly wonderful, loving people. I met them both over the phone when I handled their UPS service issues back in 1998-2000. I then had the opportunity to meet them in person and Diane invited me and my son to stay the night at their Modesto home while I was on my way to Sacramento. I had a wonderful visit and it opened the door to a beautiful friendship. Your parents will be sorely missed.

Denise Sanders

January 27, 2009

so sorry fo ryour loss may God watch over you and protect you

Dee M.

January 26, 2009

Elliott ~ Please know SO many people are grieving with you, praying for you, & are there to help you! I knew your mom & dad about 10 years, thru the biz. We would always hang up with a hug & an I love you. They were 2 of the greatest people I have ever known, w/a very special place in my heart. They always spoke of you w/the greatest love & hope for you & your future, acutally the both of their sons. While NO parents or persons can be perfect, their love knew NO bounds, & was unconditional. May God fill your heart, protect you, & may the angels of peace surround you. There are hearts full of Love & Support from many people out here you will never even know, but they ARE with you. May God comfort you & the family.

Virginia Borgatta

January 25, 2009

To Elliot,Family & Friends
This tragedy is most difficult & my heart is full of sorrow. Ken was my boss in the mid 70's when we worked together in the book publishing business & remained friends as our paths crossed through the years. Both Ken & Diane were terrific. The photo tells it all !!
I am praying for you and the family

Teri Trujillo

January 25, 2009

I have worked for Ken & Diane for the last 6 1/2 years. The nicest people I have ever known. They treated everyone as if you were special and if you were truly lucky as a member of their extended family. I am truly heartbroken...and will probably be for years to come. I send my sympathy to the family and friends of Ken and Diane. Love lives on forever!!!

Pamela Collins

January 24, 2009

We began a business relationship with Diane and Ken shortly after they formed Vintage Concepts. Talking with Diane almost weekly, it did not take long for a lasting friendship to form. After loosing our retail business and home to Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Diane and Ken were among the first friends to find us and offer us a place to live. We finally met them face to face last year and were blessed to have spent a wonderful day with them.
We are in shock at this senseless tragedy. The world will be a little dimmer and heaven a little brighter with our loss of this gracious, loving couple. May God Bless.
Pam Collins and Joy Panks
Bay St. Louis, MS

Joanne Wood

January 22, 2009

We met Ken and Diane when our son Casey became friends with Cameron in preschool. Even though they moved from Fresno to Modesto, Cameron and Casey remained friends until high school. I don't go past the Child's Ave. McDonald's in Merced without fond memories of the frequent meetings to exchange boys and catch up with each other. I was always impressed with how Diane could turn an ordinary meal into something special. Her secret of putting feta cheese in a tuna sandwich is one of my favorites. Ken and Diane were two of the dearest people I have known. Our family will always remember them with fondness and a gratitude for having known them. Our prayers are with you Elliott. May you continue to feel the blessings of their love in spite of this terrible tragedy.

Linda Carl Colin and Erin Brown

January 21, 2009

Elliot and Family,
Elliot you may not remeber us but we have known your family for 22 years. You may remember Colin since he spent a bit of time at your house. Cam and our son Colin were friends from nursery school through high school. Your parents were wonderful kind people who touched many lives in so many wonderful ways. Our thoughts and prayers will be with the whole family as you go through this terrbly sad process.

Cyndi Mall

January 21, 2009

Gary and I shared a memorable, lovely evening with Ken and Diane not long after Elliott's adoption. It was a joyful celebration with Ken's special choice of wines to accompany Diane's gourmet cooking. We will never forget her beautiful smile, Ken's easy laugh, and the obvious love they had for each other and their sons. God bless you Elliott. Your Mom and Dad will live in our hearts forever.

Bob and Fifi Donahoe

January 21, 2009

To family and friends of Diane and Ken, and especially to Elliot

I (Bob) grew up with Ken in PA and our paths crossed frequently. Ken and Diane were long among our best friends and we enjoyed being with them and the kids so much. We last visted Modesto in April and had a characteristically fantastic visit as they were as wonderful hosts as they were people. We miss them greatly. Elliot, we are here for you. Godbless and be well.

Dana (Gianelli) Pink

January 21, 2009

Dear Elliott,
I am so sorry to hear of this tragedy. I remember your parents as being so sweet and loving when I would come to babysit you. Just know that I am praying for you. With love,

Rene Rivers

January 20, 2009

Elliott & Family,

My heart goes out to you. Words cannot begin to tell you how sorry I am for your loss. Ken & Diane were wonderful people and parents. I loved the conversations I used to have with your mom. Your dad got me my first job. Elliott~I babysat you from infancy until you were 5 and then I married and moved to the east coast. Your parents were so gracious, even kind enough to have my bridal party stay the night before my wedding at their house. Your parents were so loving, I will miss them so much. They loved you so much and they loved each other so much. This is truly a tragedy.

Karen Rosales

January 20, 2009

Elliot,
I didn't know your parents that well but they were so nice to me when I would go visit you. I can't imagine what you're going through right now but I just want you to know that im here for you and my prayers are with you.

Stacey Elving

January 20, 2009

Dear Eliot,
Ken and I are sending you our thoughts and prayers. The girls too are worried about how you are coping with this tradgedy. If you need us for anything please call. As you know your parents were awesome friends and wonderful people. We truly miss them as I know you do. Please call if you can. 604-3889 Stacey, Ken, Amy, Julie, and Alison

January 20, 2009

Our prayers are with you. Your Mom & Dad are loved by so many, the Memories will not be forgotten. Our thoughts & prayers are with you during this difficult time. Please know we are here for you, your friends and neighbors.
David, Christine, Alli and Kristopher

marten oliveira

January 20, 2009

Elliot,we had the honor of meeting you and your parents this year at CCHS and we grieve with you during this time.The first thing I noticed about your parents was they were so friendly and always the first ones to offer their help when we ever needed something for our soccer program.Your coaches and your teammates are here for you if you need us,Take care..Coach Oliveira,Roni and Madison

Terence Rocca

January 20, 2009

It has been a very great priviledge to know the Terhune family. They will be sorely missed. Our soccer family grieves.

Pat and Joyce Milligan

January 20, 2009

We were shocked and saddened to hear of the Terhune Family's tragedy. Please accept our sincere condolences and prayers. We were business associates of Ken during his magazine days, and he was respected and loved by all of us.

kaitlyn zaborsky

January 20, 2009

Elliot - Please know that you are in my thoughts. I am so sorry for what you are going through. Please let me know if you need anything. Your friend Kaitlyn Zaborsky.

Andy Lucas

January 20, 2009

I was also blessed to know Ken & Diane. Through out the years I have done work for them and can not express enough how special they are. Elliott, my thoughts and prayers are with you! (209)602-0634

Glenn Morris

January 19, 2009

I had the pleasure of knowing Ken and Diane for several years. Although my primary contact was business related, they always treated me as a friend. We would frequently have lunch at the Friuit Yard, and they would often call me to see if I was in the area to join them. I will miss them very much. They were to of the kindest people/customers I have had in the past 10years.

John, Jeanette, Jennifer, Damien & Lynelle King

January 19, 2009

Elliot,
We are lifting you up in our prayers and are thinking of you so often. With love,

MaryGalindo/ SharronBambacigno

January 19, 2009

To all family and friends who feel like family, we share your pain. Having cleaned house for Diane and Ken every Friday for an excess of 16 years we're deeply grieved by this incomprehensible sadness. We'll miss Diane's warm hugs and kisses and Ken surprising us with his many talents, their old fashioned goodwill, genuine hospitality and unselfish help at times. Their home was a haven @ the end of our busy week's schedule. We'll love and miss them 'til we can see them again in a better place. Mary and Sharron

Philip Pepalis

January 19, 2009

Ken was my boss at ETD (1995+). We had a professional relationship at that time. We were not really close. Ken left the business in 1999 or so. In Jan. 2000 I got married. As my family is scattered, we were waiting until May to have a ceremony all could attend. When Ken heard of this he and Diane immediately offered their home for the ceremony. We became friends after that. I'll never forget their generosity.

Potts Family

January 19, 2009

Elliot ,
We cannot imagine the pain and grief you are experiencing. As fellow CCHS parents and students, we pray for the souls of all involved and hope that you may find a calm in the storm somewhere.

Norm, Debi & Kevin Lee

January 18, 2009

Els:
While I know our shock and grief at the loss of your parents can never begin to match your own, please know that we’re here for you. The picture in the paper was a perfect representation of your folks—always with a smile—even when we were freezing together on the sidelines watching you and Kev play soccer. That’s how we’ll remember them. We are here for you any time.
All our love,

Donna Magee Benson

January 18, 2009

I was shocked to hear this terrible news. My late husband, Mike, was in Ken and Diane's wedding. Mike and Ken worked together for many years. I took care of Cameron a couple of times when he was a baby. My heart goes out to Elliott and Ken and Diane's families.

Jacob, Anne and Ed Thiel

January 18, 2009

Dear Elliott: Words simply do not seem to be enough but it is all we have to express our feelings and grief. We cherish all these many years we have had with you and your family; their pride in you was unending. May the love and support of your family and friends comfort you in the days ahead.

Gizella Kapus

January 18, 2009

Dear Elliott,
we have never met, but I remember your parents well from when I used to work for your father at RDA Assistance. Your parents were such sweet people. I am so sorry for you loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

John and Sylvia Broderick

January 18, 2009

What a wonderful friendship and delight you have brought to the world. We cherish the chance to have had you in our circle of very special friends. Elliot, you have our love and thoughts at this difficult time.

Nancy Philipp Marotte

January 18, 2009

Dear Doris, Dick, Debbie and family,

I cannot fully express my profound sadness at the loss of Diane and Ken. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this most difficult time. If there is anything (big or small) that I can do, please do not hesitate to call. Nancy

Elliott,

You may not remember me, but I have known your mother since elementary school and your family had vacationed numerous times at our Lake Tahoe cabin. How your Mom and Dad looked forward to those trips, whether it be trying out the new boat, fishing or just relaxing with family. Never forget how much you were truly loved.

Mariah Gonzales

January 18, 2009

I knew Ken When My mom and sister worked for him at Anderson News..He was a very sweet man and cared very much for his family..I met Diane maybe once or twice and she was very pleasent women..I truly believe that they are now in heaven watching over everyone now. My codolences go out to the family and friends that knew the Trehune Family..May God Bless you. Your old friends, Rebekah Eldridge (Graden), Mariah Gonzales (Graden) both of Modesto.

Vince & Florence Del Monte

January 18, 2009

Dear Elliot, Diane and Ken were two of the best people I have ever known in the Publishing/Distribution business We are sorry for your great loss. Please accept our sincere condolence.

Lynn Fluker

January 18, 2009

To The Family of Ken and Diane Terhune - My heart aches for all of you. Diane and I were in Omega Nu together and worked many times on different projects. She was forever offering her home for charitable events. I'll never forget her excitement and joy on their adoption of Eliot. She will always be in my heart, and I know that her and Ken are in a better place. We will forever miss then and please know they will never be forgotten.

Jim and Pat Elston

January 18, 2009

Dear Elliott,

You will not remember my wife, Pat and I but, we remember what a wonderful young fellow you were. The first time we saw you your mother and father brought you to a soccer match in which our son Grant was participating. Through the years our daughter, Marisa, baby sat you. Please know that our family holds you in our hearts and prayers. Your parents were wonderful, generious and kind people.

TREVOR FREY

January 17, 2009

KEN AND DIANE WERE THE SWEETEST PEOPLE WE HAVE EVER MET AND WORKED FOR. THEY BECAME OUR DEAR FRIENDS INSTEAD OF OUR CLIENTS. WE WILL MISS THEM WITH ALL OF OUR HEARTS.
ELLIOTT,
WE ARE SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS, WE KNOW HOW MUCH THEY BOTH LOVED YOU. ALSO, IF YOU NEED ANYTHING PLEASE CALL US. (209)863-8474

TREVOR & CARRIE (painter's)

Margie

January 17, 2009

Dear Elliott,

We have never met, but I was a resident of the Del Rio area for a number of years. I just want to tell you how deeply grieved I am for you. I also want to tell you that you are not alone and that there are many loving people within this community who will be there for you! I wish you comfort and peace in the midst of this horrible tragedy and loss.

With care and concern,

Margie

Craig Kolb

January 17, 2009

I am sorry to hear of this tragic death of both Ken & his wife Diane.
I knew and spoke to Ken often when I was in the magazine business working at Kolb News Agency.
He was a nice man and will be missed by those that knew him.

Memories are what the family will have now, cherish those moments and they will still be with you.
Craig & Joan Kolb

George and Betty Erhart

January 17, 2009

George and Ken worked together for many years and have remained good friends. Diane gave me some good cooking tips through the years. Our hearts go out to Elliot and the family. This is a tragedy we will never understand or forget.

Vickie & Dan Bohannon

January 17, 2009

Elliot,

It was always a joy to see you next door and help you retrieve the basketball from our yard. My heart and prayers go out to you. If there is anything we can do let us know.

Neighbors

Mary & George Marcum

January 17, 2009

Was privileged to know and work with Ken over the years, and to socialize with both Diane and Ken. Super people; honest; hard working and fun loving. Our hearts are heavy even accepting this tragedy with the Terhume family. Our sincere condolences.

Marisa Elston Olsen

January 17, 2009

Elliott and Family-
My heart goes out to you during this tragic time. I remember your parents well from when I was your babysitter when you were a little boy and they were such, such wonderful people. They will be missed by all. You are in my thoughts and prayers. If I can help in any way, please don't hesitate.

Steve & Sandi Caldwell

January 17, 2009

Ken & Diane,

We can't bear the thought of never seeing you again. We love you, our Dear Friends and pray that you are in a better place.

candia misslbeck

January 17, 2009

Dear Elliott, Our hearts and prayers are with you. The Misslbeck Family

Jeanne Brode

January 17, 2009

Dearest Doris, Debbie, Eddie, and Taryn: I grieve with you for your enormous loss of precious Diane and Ken. Having met them both on several ocassions, I can say they were some of the dearest people I have known. May God bless you and surround you with love and support during this tragic time in your lives. Please call upon me if I can do the slightest of tasks for you. Love, Jeanne

Victoria Alldrin

January 17, 2009

Ken and Diane were some of the most wonderful people my husband and I knew. They will be missed greatly. They were very kind and sincere. We hope that they are at peace.

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