Terry M. Sheehan

Terry Michael Sheehan of Bay City, Michigan passed away on June 19, at the age of 79. After several months of declining health, Terry died peacefully with his beloved wife, Nancy, and family by his side.


Terry was born in Lubbock, Texas on August 22, 1943 to the late Michael and Elvis Sheehan. Terry grew up on the 80-acre family farm with his sister, Martha, and his brother, Marc. He graduated from Caledonia High School and then attended Michigan State University with the aid of the Kent County Golden Gloves scholarship. Terry graduated with a degree in Parks and Recreation in 1965. But before he could use his degree, Terry served in the U.S. Army. Upon returning from Viet Nam, Terry began his long career with the State of Michigan as a Park Ranger. It was also at this time he married his dear wife, Nancy VanAntwerpen on October 26, 1968. He served as manager at several state parks around Michigan before retiring in Bay City.


Terry had a passion for the water. He owned many boats over the years. He went on a memorable sailing adventure with his brother that encompassed Lake Huron’s Michigan and Canadian coastlines, as well as the Georgian Bay. He enjoyed wintering in Florida and boating in the ocean around the Keys and the rivers near Homosassa. His last boat was a trusty Boston Whaler named the Nan-Sea in honor of his wife.


However, Terry's greatest love was his family. He and Nancy celebrated 54 years of marriage and raised a wonderful family. His son, Patrick Sheehan, works for a brewery and he loved sampling the beers. He spent much time with his daughter and son-in-law, Molly and Carl Reinhardt, out on the bay or cruising the river. He was so proud of his granddaughters, Sophia and Anna Reinhardt. He enjoyed hearing about Sophia’s studies leading up to Physician Assistant school and he loved being surrounded by all the beautiful art Anna created for him.


In addition to his immediate family, Terry is survived by his brother, Marc Sheehan and his fiancé Sue Silverman, and his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Kathy and Homer Teitsma, and many special cousins. He was predeceased by his sister, Martha Sheehan, and her husband, James Smelker.


In accordance with his wishes, Terry has been cremated and his family has chosen to celebrate his life privately at this time.


Please consider making a donation to the Friends of Bay City State Park, at Friends of Park , in his memory.