Terry Lee Chronister, 65 of Spearfish, passed away on October 2, 2023, after a long battle with cancer. He passed peacefully at home surrounded by family.
Terry was the oldest child of Gale and Dorothy Chronister born and raised in Sioux Falls SD. Upon graduation from Lincoln High School, he moved to the Black Hills. He made his home in Spearfish after brief stays in California and Wyoming for work. He made careers in commercial ironwork and construction. In 2003, he opened his own engraving business, TLC Engraving, focusing on setting and engraving tombstones. His business covered a 4-state region including a government contract for the National Cemetery at Sturgis. He took pride in his business which gave families closure for loved ones that passed away. In 2013 he retired to enjoy his passions of fishing and bird hunting.
In 2005, he met Leigh Kamstra and formed a bond that held them together through whatever life presented. On April 17, 2023, they were married at UC Health Hospital in Aurora, CO. Together they fought his battle with cancer. They shared interests in fishing, motorcycles, and travel over their 18-year relationship.
Throughout Terry’s life winters were spent traveling the world deep sea fishing catching exotic fish on his bucket list. While at home bird hunting, walleye fishing, and motorcycles were his passions. Many of his adventures were shared with family and friends.
Terry is survived in death by his wife, Leigh Kamstra; mother, Dorothy Chronister; sister, Pam Chronister (Mark Askven); step-siblings, Jeb Byers, Lori Walsh, and Sarah Byers; and brother-in-law, Jon Zyrk. He is preceded in death by his father, Gale Chronister; sister, Deb Chronister; grandparents, Art & Ida Benson, and Charles & Louise Chronister; and many aunts, cousins, and friends.
Funeral services will be at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 7, 2023, at Fidler-Isburg Funeral Home in Spearfish with visitation one hour prior. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery.
Arrangements are pending with Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapels and Isburg Crematory of Spearfish. Online condolences may be written at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com
