Robert Edward Terrell

Robert Edward Terrell

Aug. 25, 1942 - April 25, 2024

MADISON - Robert Edward Terrell passed away at 81 years of age on Thursday, April 25, 2024, following a 2-year battle with an aggressive neurological psychosis.

Born and raised in Evansville, IN, Bob loved baseball and was a loyal St. Louis Cardinals fan. He graduated as Valedictorian from North Posey Jr-Sr High School (1960) and earned his undergraduate Bachelor of Science degree in Physics with Honors from Purdue University (1964). Bob went on to achieve his doctorate in High Energy Particle Physics from the University of Wisconsin at Madison (1970) where he conducted post-doctoral research and taught with a multi-disciplinary team at the Marine Studies Center and the Institute for Environmental Studies.

An avid conservationist who focused on effective uses of solar and wind energy, Mr. Terrell designed a solar space-heating system in the mid 1970's and installed it in his home. For over 50 years this system demonstrated that an alternative energy source could successfully provide heating and cooling even when located in the northern Midwest region of the country.

Bob was an amateur astronomer who served 14 years as Director, and in 2022 was appointed Member Emeritus, on the Board of Visitors to the astronomy department of UW-Madison.

He thoroughly enjoyed collecting wine for his private cellar and was a gourmet cook. Bob read almost every science-focused periodical or magazine published! In addition, he enjoyed being a member of the pit crew for his friend Bill W. at the Elkhart Lake Road America and other sports car venues.

Mr. Terrell is survived by his wife of 55 years, Caryl E. Terrell, Madison, Wisconsin; and four siblings.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: The Evansville Astronomical Society, c/o Tony Bryan, President, P. O. Box 3474, Evansville, IN 47733, evansvilleastro@gmail.com OR Agrace Foundation (donate by check, payable to "Agrace Foundation" and mail to: 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711) or call 608-327-7180.

A celebration of life will be scheduled in the future.