Terrance “Terry” Harold Pflipsen, age 76, of Avon, Minnesota, passed away on August 10th, 2025, at the St. Cloud Hospital.
Terry was born on November 7th, 1948, in St. Cloud, MN to Harold and Alice (Smith) Pflipsen. From an early age, he was known for his strong work ethic, generous spirit, and love for the outdoors. He grew up in Avon and built his life there.
He married Diane Irene Raden on October 16th, 1971, and together they shared 52 beautiful years of marriage. Terry was a devoted husband, father, papa, and friend. He took great pride in everything he did, from his career and military service, to his volunteer work and dedication to his community.
Terry began his career at Hanauer Machine (now Columbia Gear) in 1965 as a Machinist. After 2 years, he entered the United States Army, serving honorably during the Vietnam Conflict as well as a tour in Panama. Upon his return, he worked for the Railroad and at DeZurik before returning to Columbia Gear in Avon. Over his 45 years of service at Columbia Gear, he held many positions, including machinist, foreman, supervisor, and senior buyer. He retired in 2017 after forming many lifelong friendships with his coworkers.
Terry loved the community of Avon—it was where he was born and raised, and he gave back to his community in countless ways over the years. He served as a part-time police officer for the City of Avon beginning in 1978, and from 1989 to 1997 he served on the Avon City Council before being elected mayor, a position he held until 2002. As an avid marksman and hunter, Terry volunteered for 25 years with the MN Department of Natural Resources Youth Firearm Safety program, teaching proper firearm handling and safety to the next generation of hunters. In line with his passion for hunting and firearms, Terry owned and operated T.D. Gunsmith for 20 years.
His dedication and integrity left a lasting impact on everyone he worked with, served with, taught, and befriended.
Outside of work, Terry enjoyed many hobbies, most of which involved his family- classic cars, automotive repair, hunting, fishing, camping, and traveling to California and Oklahoma. If it involved being with family, Terry was there.
Terry is survived by his wife Diane, children Dustin (Kendra) Pflipsen, Ember (Randy) Tamm, grandchildren Brooke (Brayden Cordes) Tamm, Coltin (Emily) Pflipsen, Riley Pflipsen, siblings Ruth (John Cofell) Pflipsen, in-laws Leroy (Mary Lou) Raden, Odie (Steve) Goward, many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by Parents Harold and Alice Pflipsen, grandson Jackson Pflipsen, in-laws, Elizabeth “Betty” Raden, Eileen Nathe, Frank “Olie” Nathe, Ronald “Ronnie” Raden, David Raden, Danny Raden, Jeffrey Raden, Gloria Smith, Jerome “Pete” Smith.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 12th at 11:00AM at Saint Benedict’s Parish in Avon, MN, with visitation beginning at 9:00AM. Interment will follow at Camp Ripley.
Terry will be remembered for his kind heart, unwavering devotion to his family, and the joy he brought to those lucky enough to know him. His legacy will live on in the love he shared and the lives he touched.
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