Terri Lynn Alwardt was called home to be with Jesus and her loved ones at 6:05 a.m. on May 11 2020 after several years of ill health.
Her love for others seemed unlimited. She was quick to assist anyone, family member or stranger, whenever she saw a need. No matter how problematic her own circumstances might be, Terri could spot someone worse off, and would pitch in to help. Donations of clothes, food and money, even beyond regard to her own needs, were an everyday occurrence to her. She couldn't bear to see anyone in pain; in fact it often seemed as if she felt your pain even more than you. And if she loved you, her love was as encompassing and unfathomable as the ocean. She loved her daughter unconditionally. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and her greatest joy was watching them grow. She brought her mother flowers regularly, even in the final weeks of life when she could barely walk, just to see the smile on her mom's face. She doted on her brother Chris, and delighted in his two daughter's as if they were her own, and enjoyed talking with her half sister Connie, and hearing about her two daughters and her grandchildren. Her most precious possessions were the hundreds of family photos she collected over the years.
Terri was a natural "Life of the party" and the jokes and pranks she would spring on unsuspecting family members in particular were ingenious and legendary. But "hurricane Terry" was a fierce defender of any family member who happened to be mistreated or disrespected. To her that was the equivalent of a declaration of war, and the only option for the enemy was a surrender and a sincere apology.
Terri had an incredible work ethic, and a varied work history. She was at various times a horse trainer, a pharmacist, beautician, office manager, in home caregiver, retail manager and even started her own cleaning service. But her favorite line of work was in food and beverage, which kept her in touch with the people she loved, and suited her out going personality.
She will be sadly missed by all who knew her.
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