Terry Michael Swenson, 72 of Devils Lake, N.D., passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, July 16, 2026.
Terry, son of Ingvold and Lois (Sandberg) Swenson was born on Feb. 2, 1954, in Devils Lake, N.D.
He was raised in Lakewood, attending Devils Lake Public School. Terry was a self-taught mechanic. He worked at the Buick Garage with his Dad, Ingvold. He then worked in Ohio for a few years doing body work and as a mechanic. He returned to Devils Lake and worked mostly as the mechanic for George Durbin Excavating. After George sold the business he worked as a welder for Summer’s Manufacturing in Devils Lake.
Terry was once married to Lori Kueneman and they were the proud parents of two sons, Michael and Steven.
Terry was all about cars. He restored many classic cars and was a frequent participant in the Devils Run Car Show. In his younger years he enjoyed hunting with his sons.
He was a man built for engines, every hum, every rattle was like the heartbeat of a trusted old friend. Yet nothing meant more to him than the family he cherished, the true heartbeat that kept his engine running strong through the years.
Terry is survived by his loving family. His sons Michael (Kelsey) Swenson, Gwinner, ND and Steven Swenson, also of Gwinner; mother of his children, Lori Swenson (Marlin Rude), Devils Lake; siblings Laurice Swenson, Laura Halle, and Sheri (Paul) Solberg all of Devils Lake; mother-in-law Clarice Kueneman; special friends the Steve Hockett family; many dear nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Jim Swenson and father-in-law Robert Kueneman.
Funeral Services for Terry will be on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Gilbertson Funeral Home Chapel, Devils Lake, ND, with burial to follow in the Harlow Cemetery, rural Harlow, ND. A time of fellowship will follow the graveside service at the White House Cafe, Devils Lake, ND.
Urn Bearers for Terry will be Laurice Swenson, Shane Swenson, Jay Swenson, and Larry Swenson. A Special Tribute by Steve Hockett.