Terry R. Haaf

Terry Haaf, age 77, of Starbuck, MN, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2025, at Glenwood Retirement Village in Glenwood. A visitation for Terry will be held from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 4th at Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home in Glenwood. Arrangements are with Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home of Glenwood.
Terry Robert Haaf was born on August 23, 1947, in St. Cloud, MN. He was the oldest child of Robert and Donna (Youngberg) Haaf and a loving brother to his sister, Sandra.
Terry was a pillar of strength and joy to his devoted wife, Barbara "Bobbi" Marie Smith Mielke, whom he married in 1980 in Clearwater, MN. Together, they built a family that included her children, Tina and Roger.
Terry was raised on a farm near Clear Lake, MN, and was a graduate of St. Cloud Tech High School. His pursuit of higher education led him to the University of MN and St. Cloud Technical College, culminating in him earning a degree from St. Cloud Business College. Terry served his country with dedication in the Minnesota Army National Guard from 1966 to 1972, honorably discharged with the rank of Platoon Sergeant.
Terry's professional life was marked by his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. His career began as an auditor in the grain division of International Milling Co. He later joined United Building Center - Anderson Lumber, followed by a pivotal seven-year tenure at Clearwater Liquor, where he transitioned from employee to owner. In 1983, he sold the store and took on the role of manager at Glenview Apartments in Glenwood, where he served the community for 27 years. His commitment to his work continued at Glacial Ridge Health Systems in the maintenance department, where he dedicated another 27 years before retiring. Terry also contributed his time and talents to Lakeside Ballroom for ten years.
Terry's life was enriched by his involvement in numerous associations and volunteer activities. He was a beloved little league baseball coach and served as President of the Clearwater Snowmobile Club. His commitment to his community was evident in his volunteer work as firefighter with the Clearwater Fire Department and his role as Treasurer of the Clearwater American Legion Club. Terry's passion for sports led him to coach softball and help initiate the "Let's Go Fishing" program in Glenwood. Additionally, he was a dedicated Boy Scout volunteer and served as the chairman of the finance board at Glenwood Lutheran Church.
Those who knew Terry would describe him as thoughtful, loving, and friendly. His warm presence and willingness to lend a helping hand will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Terry's legacy is one of selfless service, unwavering support, and a deep love for his family and community.
Terry passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, after a brief stay at Glenwood Retirement Village having reached the age of 77 years.
He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Barbara "Bobbi" Haaf of Starbuck; their children, Tina (Jerry) Smude of Spooner, WI and Roger (Bonnie) Mielke of Yakima, WA; six grandchildren, Jessica, Jackie, Jerrid, Breanna, Eric, and Sean Mielke, along with 14 great-grandchildren; and his sister, Sandy (Mark) Brenden of Rowlett, TX; all of whom brought immense happiness to his life.
Terry was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Donna Haaf.
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