Terry Lee Bovee Obituary

Henderson, MN - Terry Lee Bovee of Henderson, MN, died peacefully from heart surgery complications, June 21st, 2025.

Terry filled his 78 years: rascal, draftsman, Vietnam/Navy, U of M Soil Science graduate, soil scientist, LeSueur County Planning and Zoning administrator, State of MN source water protection planner, self-employed soil scientist, wetland delineator. He was a communicator, an advocate, a teacher, a student, a dad, a loving life partner, and a friend. Terry connected with his communities through the LeCenter Lion's Club, Henderson's Historical Car Association and Joseph R. Brown history center, Minnesota Association of Professional Soil Scientists, and The Nature Conservancy at Ottawa Bluffs. Terry grew into the person he was by responding to his sense of wonder and his desire to learn. He quickly focused on the dynamics of earth systems, specifically soil science. With confidence and talent, his work at the County and State levels kept him close to the Land and shaped a lifelong advocacy. Terry as a family man was an adventure. If there was a need in community or family or friends, Terry was there, responding and doing what he could to support in our achievement with great love. Cars also captured his imagination. With his family's support and years of persistence, he dreamed his truck into a work of art. The beautiful brown truck (the color of oak leaves in the Fall) was complete and became a whole new venture to expand his community in his manner; with respect, support, encouragement, appreciation. "Tell me, what is it you plan to do/ with your one wild and precious life?" Mary Oliver. Preceded in death by parents, Wayne and Dorothy Bovee, in-laws, Bob and Mary Gordenier. Survived by Kim, wife of 44 years; children Jack, Reta, Katie; grandchildren Cayle, Maggie Lind; sister Iona "Tunie" (Jerry) Meyer; brothers-in-law Terr Gordenier and Todd, Ellen, Sarah, Annie, Ben Gordenier; and Esther, Dave, Sophia, Sienna Gormley. Visitation (3pm), service (4pm) at Zion UCC in LeSueur, MN, July 18th. Please send Memorials to MinnPost or University of Minnesota CFAN- Land Grant Legacy Scholarship.