Terry Lee Meyer

Terry “The Bear” Meyer had many roles, including husband, father, son, grandfather, brother, coach, Chief of Social Work, friend, and Chaplain’s Assistant while in the military. He is survived by his wife of more than 50 years, Michelle; two children, Serena Biggs (husband Waylon) and Matthew Meyer (wife Jess Purple); and 4 grandchildren, Mya, Reese, Otis and Peach. His family role was the greatest joy of his life.

Terry was born in Elgin, Illinois on December 29th, 1945 - the same day his wife’s parents were married. Five years later to the day, his wife Michelle was born. Terry was the first born son of Floyd and Mina Meyer. He had three brothers - Steve, David, and Jackie (who died at birth).

In May of 1956, his family moved from Illinois to California where he lived for most of his life. He developed a love for the ocean, enjoyed fishing, and spent as much time as possible at the beach. Camping next to the ocean was his happy place. From an early age, Terry excelled in sports - particularly baseball - becoming all-league at Chatsworth High School.

After high school, Terry completed three years at San Fernando Valley State College. He then decided to change course and enlisted in the army. His father Floyd was in the Army Air Corps, and served as a mechanic for the Presidential Plane, “Sacred Cow,” under both Roosevelt and Truman. Following in his footsteps, Terry joined the 82nd Airborne from 1968-1970, where he served as Chaplain’s Assistant. He was stationed in Okinawa, and it was there that he met Michelle, whose father was working as a civil engineer for the U.S. government.

After the military, Terry joined Michelle in South Dakota where they finished college at Augustana.

He graduated with his bachelor's degree in social work, followed by graduate school in Salt Lake City where he earned his MSW degree. Terry began his career at the West LA Veterans Hospital in 1971 (thanks to his friend Keith Froehlich). A few years after, he transferred to Loma Linda VA Hospital, where he retired as the Chief of Social Work after 37 years of service. He impacted countless lives at the VA as he continued to care for and honor veterans his entire life. Veterans Day was by far his favorite holiday, and he often would visit Riverside Memorial Cemetery to pay his respects. This is where he will be laid to rest.

When it came to sports, Terry loved being a coach for his kids and his community. He was well known in Yucaipa Little League and club soccer. He would travel to Serena and Matt’s games and track & cross country meets all over the country - during both high school and college. Just two weeks before his death, Terry did a sit down interview about his life with his son Matt. He expressed how important it is for parents to show up for their kids’ games. “Just be there, it makes all the difference for the kids.”

When asked how he would like to be remembered, Terry responded “…I would like to be remembered, period.” To the people who knew him best, he will be remembered for his big heart, sense of humor, stubborn will, and devotion to his family and community.

A celebration of life will be held at Weaver-Hughes Mortuary of Yucaipa on March 13 at 4pm. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in honor of Terry.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.weaverhughes.com for the Meyer family.