Terry Clevenger

Terry Wade Clevenger, 58, died unexpectedly after a short illness on July 27, 2019, surrounded by his family and friends. Terry, born on October 21, 1960 in Nampa, was the fifth child of Kenneth A. and Marguerite L. (Nau) Clevenger. This tiny boy, with blonde hair so light it was almost white, was a most welcomed addition to the family, especially by older sisters, Cecelia and Norma. They thought having a baby brother to play with was far superior to any doll manufactured. Terry loved growing up on the family farm between Nampa and Kuna. His large box of Lego blocks was in constant use as he designed and built toys to play with. As he grew, the Legos were replaced with real-life projects, like working with his father to repair or design improvements on the farm equipment. Like most boys, Terry wanted to be just like his dad. He had an opportunity to prove his manhood when he was six years old. His parents decided they wanted to go to Yellowstone on vacation. Loading Terry and Norma into the van, they picked up older sister Mary and her husband Ron on the way. One afternoon the group found an available picnic table in the shade and began unloading their supply, preparing for lunch. Ron noticed two bears walking toward them, looking for handouts for the tourists. Ron and Kenneth picked “switches” from a nearby bush and proceeded to hit them on their noses telling them to go away. After the bears left, the family resumed setting up. Terry saw one of the bears coming back so he took matters into his own hands. Picking up one of the sticks previously used, he boldly walked up to the bear. When it was time to eat, they noticed that Terry was missing. Looking around they were shocked and scared to see Terry yelling and swinging at the bear. Terry attended Kuna schools, graduating in 1979. That same year he met a cute, petite girl with long blonde hair, Shelley Lipinski. He found her bubbly personality and laughter irresistible. He was thrilled that she seemed to enjoy his attention. His instincts about her were correct and they were married September 4, 1982 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Melba, Idaho. They brought out the best in each other and Terry always felt blessed that she chose him. In 1989, son Mike was born, Terry's pride and joy. Terry had a unique intelligence that allowed him to view mechanical problems with an unconstrained imagination that lead to innovation of design and construction which helped him to excel in his jobs. He could invent and create things others could only marvel at. His most awe-inspiring and treasured creation was his Harley. He designed, fabricated and brilliantly created his custom 1984 “Terry built” Harley Softail Evolution. This bike was no kit! It was a masterpiece. He loved his work and his work family. His favorite job, which he kept until his passing, was working at Kuna Machine Shop. He was able to utilize all the skills he started developing as a child, playing with Legos and working beside his father – designing, fabricating, milling and welding. He looked forward to the challenges presented each day and the customers he met. Taking vacations were rare and treasured opportunities. One memorable trip he and Shelley made was riding his Harley to Sturgis, South Dakota for the annual motorcycle rally. The trip resembled an endurance run, but that fact only enhanced the experience. Another dream vacation took them to Hawaii for a visit with a close friend Rich, who gave him the full locals’ only island tour. Terry never tired of talking about what a great time they had and how grateful he was of Rich’s friendship and generosity. Terry was family to his friends, and friends to his family. Terry became quite close to his brother Ken in recent years. The close friendship they shared allowed for long road trips to Oklahoma with some crazy storytelling and lots of laughter. Every friend was important to Terry, and with Shelley always at his side, they were quick to welcome anyone into their circle. Everyone who knows Terry adores and respects him. He would give anyone the shirt off his back (and it would likely have a Harley on it). He was genuine, had perpetual cheerfulness and a strong work ethic. He was fiercely loyal to his family. Terry was proud of and loved deeply his bride and best friend Shelley, son Mike and adorable grandchildren. He was so quick with his thanks and praise, that at every family gathering, the hostess made sure that one of Terry’s favorites was on the menu, such as Mom’s custard pie or Mary’s sour cream fudge. He didn’t dwell on negatives and he embraced life to its fullest. Terry was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his wife, Shelley; son, Mike (Chelsie); grandchildren: Drystan, Hayden and Casey; brother, Ken Clevenger; sisters: Mary (Ron) Ferguson, Cecelia (John) Sachtjen, and Norma (Kevin) Petty; seven nephews and nieces; the incredible family he inherited when he married Shelley; and multiple close friends. A graveside service will be at held on Friday, August 2nd at 10:00 A.M. at Meridian Cemetery in Meridian, with a gathering of friends at Storey Park immediately after. We treasure the outpouring of love and support we have received and we realize this loss runs deep for each of us. Terry, we miss your smile and infectious laugh already. *Please see "Service Information" tab for service details. *