Terry F. Griffel

Terry F. Griffel, 83, of La Crosse passed away in his home on Monday, August 2, 2021. He was born in La Crosse on May 16, 1938, to Frank and Margaret (Steuernagel) Griffel. He married Rhea Ann McKillip on September 19, 1957, at the English Lutheran Church, La Crosse.

In the late 1950’s and early 1960’s Terry worked for Schaffer Motors. He also helped with Schaffer Barge & Dredging Co. dredging sand into the area for the Midway Motor Lodge and the trailer park adjacent to the Midway to be built. Terry then attended WWTI and graduated in the special automotive repair program which landed him a job with Community Motors Cadillac and Rambler until it closed. His next career opportunity was with La Crosse Cooler Co. where he became the Chief Union Steward for the UAW at the plant until it closed in 1985. Following that, Terry worked for Chart and retired in 1994, and his dear wife Rhea also retired in 1994. They enjoyed riding their Harley Davidsons, going for walks at Goose Island, family time, and traveling together. Terry was also a lifetime member of the Governors Guard Association.

Terry is survived by his brother-in-law, Roger Overson Sr., two nephews Roger Jr. (Lisa) Overson, Randall (Heidi) Overson, many great nieces & nephews, and his very dear friends John & Joyce Deal and Jim & Shirley Fema.

He was preceded in death by his wife Rhea, on April 26, 2019, his parents, sister Patricia Griffel and sister-in-law Catherine Overson.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, August 6, 2021, in English Lutheran Church, 1509 King St., La Crosse. Pastor Glen Bickford will officiate with burial to be held in Oak Grove Cemetery. Family and friends may visit from 10:00 AM until the time of the service at Church on Friday.