Jerry Nelson Terman

Jerry Nelson Terman, 88, formerly of rural Warsaw, passed away at 7:40 p.m. Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at Majestic Care West Allen, Columbia City, where he was a resident for the past six years.

Born on June 24, 1937, in Troy Township, Whitley County, Indiana, he was a son of the late Stanley R. and Juanita (Long) Terman. Growing up in Etna-Troy Twp., he graduated from Larwill High School in 1955.

Self-employed for many years as Terman Excavating and Pierceton Rotary. He then finished his working career at Jerry Reiff Construction.

He married the love of his life, Phyllis Marie Gaerte. They made their home in Warsaw. Phyllis died August 29, 2019. He missed her every day.

An avid hunter, he enjoyed Elk hunting in the western states and deer hunting locally. He liked to fish year-round, including ice fishing. A fan of shooting sports, he collected guns of all types and enjoyed shooting them. He participated in the Larwill Softball League throughout his life.

Surviving are his children, Cindy Semler of Churubusco and Christopher Terman of Texas; stepchildren, Robert Nulf of Albion, Janet Nicholson of Florida, Sherry Strader of Tennessee, and stepdaughter and caretaker, Karen Pettigrew of Fort Wayne; 15 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren; and three great-great grandchildren.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by brothers Tom, Wayne, and Jack Terman, and three grandchildren, Shawn Foster, Ryan Foster, and Tiffany Parker.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday (Dec. 8th) at the Nolt Cemetery, 2400 South Washington Road, Columbia City. Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

Memorials in Jerry's honor are to the Alzheimer's Association.