Terry French

Terry L. French, age 77, Webster, SD, passed away Friday, February 24, 2023, at Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls.

There will be a Tribute and Memorial celebrating Terry's Life on Sunday, October 1, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Thirsty Duck, 945 South Marion Road, Sioux Falls, SD. A private graveside service will take place at a later date. He will be buried in the family plot at the Webster Cemetery.

Terry L. French was born on July 10, 1945, in Webster, SD, to Aubrey and Oriette French. Terry graduated from Webster High School in 1963, then went on to attend Northern State College in Aberdeen pursuing a degree in education.

Terry was a jack of all trades, history buff, lover of nature. He was a brother to Larry and Edith, uncle to Alex and Anna, as well as a beloved son, grandson, nephew and cousin.

Terry would like to be remembered as a musician. Not just someone who strummed a guitar, but someone with music in his soul, running through his blood. Terry had a passion for music, which was true to his heritage, as his dad and siblings were musicians as well. Their household always had instruments tucked in corners of the house.

Terry was passionate about music and played guitar with several bands throughout his life, including touring with one across the US. He would step in and play in bands when a guitar player was needed.  Terry was inducted into the 2015 South Dakota Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with the New Group from Aberdeen. On September 30th, 2023, Terry was honored with the 2023 Spirit of Music Award, presented posthumously to his family by the South Dakota Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

In September 2021, Terry had a stroke, which ended up with him living at Bethesda in Webster. He missed being able to play his guitar or being able to be out in nature. He loved the lakes around the Waubay area and enjoying catching fish.

Terry had a soft spot for animals, especially cats. At the time of his stroke, he had two cats, Weah and Abbie. He missed them so much when he moved into the nursing home.

Terry is survived by his siblings, Larry and Rose Mary French of Arizona, and Edith and Michael Duane of Illinois; his nephew, Alex French; and niece, Anna and Victor Cruz. He is also survived by his special cousin, Marlene Hanson of Rosholt, SD.

Terry is preceded in death by his parents, Aubrey and Oriette French; grandparents, Lawrence and Marie Aadland and Chester and Edith French; and furbabies who left a pawprint on his heart when they passed, Pierpont and Ortley.