Terry William McKinley

Terry William McKinley, a beloved husband, devoted veteran, and joyful spirit, passed away peacefully at home on November 10, 2025, in Baldwin, Wisconsin, following a long decline due to dementia. Born on May 3, 1945, in Iowa Falls, Iowa, to Pastor Paul and Leola McKinley, Terry embraced life with warmth, kindness, and an adventurous heart.

As the son of a pastor, Terry began playing music early in life for his father's church services. His mother often shared a favorite story about the one time he was late-at age ten-because he had become completely absorbed in reading the Sunday comics.

Terry proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps for four years, working as secretary to the General. His service instilled in him the values of dedication, discipline, and honor that guided him throughout his life.

After leaving the military, Terry built a successful career in financial services. He was deeply passionate about senior housing and cooperative ownership, and in 2000 he became a founder of Cooperative Housing Resources. Over the years, he contributed to the development and financing of more than thirty senior housing cooperatives and was honored with the Founder Award from the Senior Cooperative Foundation in 2018. His vision and expertise created a strong foundation for growth in this sector and improved the lives of countless seniors.

Terry's adventurous spirit led him to co-found The Ride for Recovery, a program reflecting his commitment to personal growth, health, and community. Meetings often began at sunrise, every Saturday at 6:30 a.m. He loved the open road and proudly participated in the Rolling Thunder veteran rides to Washington, D.C., honoring his fellow servicemen and women.

During the late 1990s and early 2000s, Terry was instrumental in the recovery community in St. Paul, Minnesota. He was one of the founding members of The Recovery Church and served as its Musical Director, one of the many hats he wore in the startup. During this time, he discovered the Native American cedar flute a sacred instrument that Terry felt gave voice to his prayers. He shared his gifts by playing piano, organ, and filling in whenever music was needed for services.A gifted and heartfelt musician, Terry recorded a beloved CD titled Conversations With God. One of his proudest musical memories was sharing his flute music with a Native American tribe in Cascade Locks, Oregon, after a teacher reached out to him for a demonstration.

Above all, Terry's greatest joy was his life with his loving wife, Carol McKinley. Together they explored the beauty of life's journey, traveling across America from Arizona, Florida, New Hampshire, Oregon, and California, creating memories filled with laughter, adventure, and love. They often traveled with their camper and motorcycle in tow, staying at KOA campgrounds along the way.

Fulfilling a lifelong dream, Terry later established a horse ranch in Baldwin, where he found deep peace and companionship with his cherished horse, Cowboy. The ranch became a place of reflection, joy, and connection to nature and it was at home on his ranch that he was offered and accepted his wings, passing on peacefully as he slept.

Terry was preceded in death by his parents, Pastor Paul and Leola McKinley; his brother, Robert McKinley; and Robert's wife, Arlinda.

He is survived by his loving wife, Carol; his children Chris (Bonnie) McKinley, Thomas McKinley, and Kristina McKinley (from previous marriage to Gunilla McKinley); and his stepchildren Del (Gail) Hansen and Danielle (Chad) Anderson. He is also survived by his grandchildren Chloe, Bella, and Kieran; and by step-grandchildren Evelyn, Bridget, and Archer. Terry leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends, including Dan Drew, Rick Carpenter, Steven Allen, and countless others who were touched by his life.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Tiffany Boehm, her family, and the hospice care team, whose loving support and guidance provided comfort to Terry and helped Carol care for him at home during his final years. Their compassion made a profound difference.

A memorial service will be held at a later date for family and friends to celebrate Terry's remarkable life and legacy. Details will be shared once finalized, and all are welcome to join in remembrance and reflection.