Terence "Terry" M. Garvey, Sr., 90, died peacefully in Petaluma on Sunday, January 7, 2018, surrounded by his family. He is survived by his children Kathleen, Lett (Doris), Terry Jr. (Tvang), Tom (Nancy) and Sheila; grandchildren Lauren, Ben, Evan and Natalie; sister Colleen; and 10 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Joanne; son John; and siblings Constance, Thomas and Daniel. Terry was born in Appleton, WI to Celestine and Agnes Garvey. He left Appleton for the University of Notre Dame earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology earning a Master of Science degree in Engineering and Construction. He served in the Army, attended the Engineer Officer Candidates School and was commissioned as a second lieutenant. In 1956 he married Joanne Welch in Fort Worth, TX. In the early years of marriage he worked for the family firm of Fox Valley Construction in Appleton until moving to Arizona where he worked for the Salt River Project and then Amstar Corporation in San Francisco. In 1968 the family moved to Petaluma. He retired as the Chief Engineer for Westlands Water District in Fresno. As a husband and father of six, Terry found time to contribute to the community by leading Cub Scouts, coaching soccer, teaching catechism, and serving on the Old Adobe School Board. In retirement he enjoyed being a member of Kiwanis, SIRS and the Camera Club. He found strength in his faith, especially after Joanne’s death. He was a member of St. James Parish, participated in the Catholic Business Club Breakfasts, volunteered with the St. Vincent de Paul Society and become a Eucharistic Minister for patients at Petaluma Valley Hospital. His children have happy memories of camping in Tuolumne Meadows, Bible bedtime stories and his interest in nature and science, especially geology. Terry often had a twinkle in his eye when greeting or teasing friends and acquaintances. He will be remembered for his sharp intellect, thoughtful conversation and genuine interest in people. A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2018, 11:00 am at St. James Catholic Church. Donations in Terry’s memory may be made to Catholic Charities, the St Vincent de Paul Society, or the Committee on the Shelterless (COTS). Memorial Mass
St. James Catholic Church
Saturday, February 17, 2018
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
125 Sonoma Mountain Parkway
Petaluma, CA 94954
Directions