Terrance L. Thorvilson

Terrance (Terry) Thorvilson, 77, of Fairdale, North Dakota, passed away on August 28 at Altru Hospital, surrounded by his family.

Terry was born on June 25, 1948, to Robert Thorvilson and Joy Thorvilson (Sellheim/Ferguson). He grew up in Adams, ND and graduated from Adams Public School before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps, where he served honorably during the Vietnam War. After his military service, he attended North Dakota State College of Science, where he graduated with a degree in autobody.

On August 14, 1971, he married LouAnn Clemens, and together they built a life and family on their farm outside Fairdale. They raised four children—Travis, Luke, Megan, and Sam—and experienced both joys and sorrows, including the loss of their son Luke at 18 months old due to complications from heart surgery.

Terry farmed for many years before beginning a career with the North Dakota Department of Transportation, where he worked with dedication and pride until his retirement in 2015. A man of deep faith, he was a devoted member of Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams, ND. He was also an active member of the Lankin Legion.

He shared his time and talents in countless quiet, meaningful ways—whether as a reliable team bus driver, a faithful gymnastics equipment manager, or the much-loved “donut dropper.” Terry was a man of steady commitment: to his work, his community, his church, and above all, his family. His six grandchildren were the light of his life, and he treasured every moment spent with them.

Terry is survived by his wife of 54 years, LouAnn; his children Travis (Laura), Megan (Adam), and Sam (Rachel); his beloved grandchildren Ella, Lillie, Sara, Gunnar, Solveig, and Thora; his siblings Robert (Eileen), Wayne (Mardy), Sue Capouch, Carla Kleven, Craig Ferguson (Lisa), Stacie Ensrude, and Troy Ferguson; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Joy; his infant son, Luke; his brother, Dallas; and his brothers-in-law Roger Capouch and Mitch Ensrude.

Memorial services will be Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. at the Adams Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams, North Dakota. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service at the church. Inurnment will be at the Trinity Lutheran Cemetery, rural Adams, ND. Military rites will be provided by the Bosh-Ryba American Legion Post #157 of Lankin, ND and the US Marine Corps Honor Guard.