It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Terry L. Ficken (age 65), on November 3, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer. He leaves behind a legacy of love, selflessness and unwavering devotion to his family, friends, and heritage.
Terry is survived by Rosemarie (née Sterzl) Ficken, his beloved wife of 42 years; he was a loving & devoted father to Stephanie (Bobby) Schaper, Katrina (Mike) Barlow and Laura Ficken. He was a proud and loving Opa to Alexia and Britton Schaper, Stella, Vera, and soon-to-be born grandson Barlow. He held in dear affection Laura’s cherished family, Joe Straatmann & children Adeon, Nova, and Orion. Terry was a dear brother-in-law to Birgit (Wayne) McMullen and to Erich Sterzl. He is survived by his sister, Karen (née Ficken) Petrovic and family. He was a dear uncle, cousin, and friend to many. Terry was preceded in death by his parents Vernon and Esther Ficken, as well as his in-laws, Rudolf and Maria Sterzl.
His memory will live on forever in the hearts of his beloved family, friends and all those whose lives he touched. He will be greatly missed.
SERVICES: A memorial service and Celebration of Life will be held in his honor on Sunday, November 19th, at the German Cultural Society (3652 S. Jefferson Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63118) from 12:00-5:00 pm. Memorial service begins at 1:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the German Cultural Society of St. Louis. http://www.germanstl.org/donations.html.
We will forever remember Terry with Love and Respect. One never saw Terry without a smile. He was always a gracious, humble and quiet man. Our hearts are greatly saddened with his passing. Our Love and Support go out to Terry’s wife and family. 🙏🙏🙏
Terry was always there and ready to help. Sometimes he seemed to know what you needed before you did, because he was that attentive of a person. A friend to everyone. And so devoted to the GCS and his heritage. My heartfelt condolences go out to Rosemarie and his family.
We were saddened to hear of Terry’s passing. We always enjoyed his company and his sense of humor. We have not seen him for several years but we remember the good times we had with fond memories. Our prayers and remembrance are with his wife Rosemarie and his family. So sorry to hear of your loss.
Joe and Anita Stolze
Our deepest sympathies for the loss of Terry. He was a warm and caring man who always had a smile. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Our sincere condolences.
Jerry and Dorothy Chambers
We are deeply sorry to hear of the passing of our dear Terry Ficken. He will be forever missed by so many.
Terry was strongly involved in the management of the German Cultural Society and devoted so much of his time to assure a good outcome always. He was a friend to all its members. Our prayers and sympathies are with his Family.
Rudi & Trude Schwenger
Terry was such a giving, kind, hard-working and generous soul. He will be dearly missed in the community. He was always cheerful in all situations. I will always remember his devotion to his family and his commitment to the German Cultural Society. I am so very sorry Rosemarie. My family was blessed to have known your dear husband.
To the Ficken Family –
We are so sorry for your loss of your Dad!! He was a good man – always smiling and laughing. It was a blessing to have know him. Rosemarie – so very sorry for your loss of your best friend and husband. May God shine upon you and your family during this time of sorrow.
Jim & Vern Simokaitis, Austin & Payton Simokaitis, and Maura Simokaitis
Terry had been a long time patron of our salon, and was such a kind soul. Our littlest one, Alivia, has fond memories of talking to Terry and showing her toys to him. He was always such a warm and welcoming presence and he will be dearly missed. The family of Terry has our condolences. Fly high Terry🕊️
I am so very sorry to hear of this sad information. I remember Mr. Ficken very fondly. He was always very friendly and supportive. Your entire family are in my thoughts. Please reach out for any needs.
I was so very sad to hear of Terrys passing . A kind and good Man to his. Family and friends . Sending prayers for his beautiful family🙏❤️
Terry embodied the Lord’s command: “Love your neighbor as you love yourself!” We will miss you Terry; especially your infectious smile.
Ruhe in Frieden Kamerad!
I knew Terry for a brief 2 years; however, during that time he was a great pleasure to work with.
Rosemary and girls
We are so very sorry for your loss. Terry was such a sweet man. We will always remember him with joy in our hearts. Rosemary you and Terry had such a sweet wonderful marriage that will always be an example of how to love and live well. You are in our prayers.