Stephen K. Terhune

Stephen K. Terhune
Stephen King Terhune, of Peoria, Illinois, died peacefully, at his home, on Monday, December 8, 2025, due to complications from cancer.
Steve was born in Dallas, Texas, on June 6, 1952, to Helen "Chee" and Robert "Moose" Terhune; joining older siblings, Robert "Terry", Helen "Taffy", and Patricia "Patty".
Steve graduated from Middlesex School and Dartmouth College. While at Dartmouth, Steve studied History, earning his B.A. in 1973. Steve went on to study law at the University of Chicago.
Steve believed strongly in the importance of education and was very proud of his academic achievements. He believed in giving back, and provided ongoing financial support for his alma maters, and his vocal support for education had a big impact on those around him.
Steve was a tireless supporter of the arts and enjoyed collecting art and antiques. He loved New York City and split his time between Illinois and New York, where he would attend Broadway shows, visit museums and attend performances at Lincoln Center as part of the Metropolitan Opera Club, of which he was a member and supporter for many years.
He travelled extensively throughout the world and enjoyed experiencing new cultures, often bringing a nephew or niece along; but his favorite place to spend time was, without question, Northport Point, Michigan, where he spent all of his summers and enjoyed time with his closest friends and relatives.
Steve enjoyed golf and played until his body no longer allowed it. He was an expert on all things Titanic, having read volumes on the ill-fated voyage. Steve also owned an impressive collection of authentic and reproduced Titanic relics.
He loved exploring Northport Bay in his Hacker-Craft, the Miwaka, and watching the late-evening sun set from the back porch of his 100-year-old cottage on Northport Point, taking-in nature's beauty until the afterglow concluded.
He truly loved The Cottage.
Although he never married, he had a wonderful large family and friends, whom he cherished and who cherished him.
Steve fought his cancer (the "meanies" as he would say) admirably with the help of many doctors, nurses, friends and relatives, whom we offer a heartfelt thanks.
Steve was predeceased by his mother and father, Chee and Moose; and is survived by his brother, Terry; sisters, Taffy and Patty (all of Northport, MI); two nephews, a niece, and their respective children.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Munson Medical Center Cowell Family Cancer Center, in Traverse City, Michigan.
A memorial service will be held in the Summer of 2026. Tributes and condolences may be left at www.wrightandsalmon.com .