Terry A. Burgen
June 16, 1963 – September 21, 2023
The family is planning a private memorial event. Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, in c/o the funeral home.
Obituary
Age 60, passed away early Thursday morning, September 21, 2023. Terry was born in Kalamazoo on June 16, 1963, the son of Donna Burgen. Terry had a huge heart. He would give the shirt off his back to anyone. You didn’t need to know him to be treated fairly by him. Terry was always working on something, but he really liked working on and building motorcycles. Terry WAS a Harley man. As a mechanic, he could fix anything. For a while, he ran his own business, Cooper Transmissions. He was a drummer and playing them was his passion. He played in several bands including the Stout Young Grandmas, and Variance. Terry is survived by his sons, Ryan (Lorna Ambs-Hammond) Burgen, Randy Burgen and Rick Burgen; daughter, Ely Tarkkanen; grandchildren, Aria, Lilith; siblings; Donna, Ed, Jerry, and Tressa; several nieces and nephews; many, many friends, including his former wife Karen, who took care of him until his death. Terry was preceded in death by his mother.
I am so happy to have taken care of you! Shared some special times! You are always in my heart ♥️ prayers for the whole family! 🙏♥️
My father, Tom Hoke, was good friends with Terry. He often spoke of him with great reverence and respect. I only met him once and I was really blown away by his music and garage setup. You rarely see an individual with such diverse talents. My deep condolences to his children and family. I wish there was more I could say. Rock on Terry
A good friend and band mate for over 30 years. The first meeting was an all day jam after which he bought us all pizza. We created many many songs and made music for all that lasted well into the night many times. Playing to crowds of 300+ on many occasions he could play anything even if it wasn’t his favorite style and do it with passion. I and all that knew him will miss him always! He will always be a Stout Young Grandma.
I’m really in awe at how talented he was. Not only as a mechanic and percussionist but I also admired his carpentry skills when he built that back deck on the Lake st house. I remember watching him on a dirt bike–the man was fearless on that thing! RIP Terry ride them heavenly clouds!
I have known Terry most of my life and i am just in disbelief . I am so sorry Donna, Ed, Jerry and Tressa I hope you can find peace. I never met his children I hope that they can find peace also. Fly high Terry you was a talented and good man. I will pray that your family can find peace and have good memories forever