Terrance Joseph Bolger of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, passed away peacefully at Ava's Hospice house on July 5, 2026. He was 83 years old.

A Celebration of Life is being planned by the family for a later date.

Terry was born on January 31, 1943, the youngest of five children born to Michael Bolger (originally of Dublin, Ireland) and Mary (O'Rourke) Bolger. Known throughout his life for his striking red hair, a famously gruff facade, an unmatched work ethic, great sense of humor and a heart of gold.

A true Sioux Falls north end kid, Terry could be found digging up night-crawlers with his childhood friends for fishing at Covel Lake. He attended Cathedral High School and graduated from the University of South Dakota. Soon after, he met the love of his life, Deborah "Debby" Douthit. They met on a blind date; a favorite story Terry never missed a chance to share.  They were married on October 14, 1972.

Terry and Debby raised two beloved children, William Bolger and Rebecca Bolger, both of Sioux Falls.

Terrance dedicated 20 plus years of his career with The Good Samaritan Society before retiring.

The cabin on Lake Madison was a happy place where they created a lifetime of favorite family memories. A tradition was the annual putting in of the lake boat dock—a task he took very seriously in his role of "chief supervisor," lovingly micromanaging his nephew, Ryan Bolger.

His greatest joy came after his granddaughter, Bailey Bolger, of Sioux Falls was born. She held his whole heart, and he never missed a chance to proudly show her off, cheer her on at her tennis matches, and watch her snowboard.

His later years, were filled with good books, playing solitaire, and above all, loudly cheering on Notre Dame football. Go Irish!

Terry is survived by his two beloved children, Rebecca Bolger and William Bolger; his cherished granddaughter, Bailey Bolger; his sister, Monica (Bolger) Ewy; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Mary Bolger; his wife, Deborah "Debby" (Douthit) Bolger; his brother, Brian Bolger; and his sisters, Kathleen (Bolger) Barnett and Mary Esther (Bolger) Wilson.

He was loved by many and his presence will be missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to the Special Olympics, the Humane Society, or a charitable organization of your choice."