Terry Kuhns

Terry Kuhns, 68, of Winterset, Iowa, passed away surrounded by his family on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. Born and raised in Winterset, Terry spent his life building a home and family that meant everything to him.

Terry is survived by his beloved wife and high school sweetheart, Terri Kuhns; his children, Kelsey (Josh) Hall of Grimes, IA and Jordan Kuhns (Alex O’Brien) of Bloomington, IL; his granddaughters, Avary and Lydia; his siblings, David Kuhns of Macksburg, IA and Dixie (Gregg) Herman of Morris, IL.; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Sandi and Mark Cook of West Des Moines, IA and brother-in-law, Dean Howard of De Soto, IA.; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dale and Virginia Kuhns; his siblings, Richard (Linda) Kuhns, Kathy Harrell, and Barb Howard; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Doc and Jodi Griffith; and sister-in-law, Pat Kuhns. These losses shaped the quiet strength he carried throughout his life.

Terry was known as a man who would do anything for anyone yet rarely asked for anything in return. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather who was deeply involved in the lives of those he cared for most. He was the kind of father who truly helped raise his children, cooking meals, cleaning the house, showing up for every milestone, and shedding happy, proud tears over the accomplishments of the people he cherished most. Though he could seem intimidating to those who did not know him well, those closest to him knew the gentle, tender-hearted man behind that strong exterior.

Terry believed in hard work, loyalty, and taking care of the people and community around him. He worked for his father-in-law for many years before purchasing the family business, Doc’s Soft Water, and later establishing Madison County Plumbing and Heating. Terry was passionate about Winterset and active in the community, serving as President of the Lakeview Country Club, President of the Madison County Chamber of Commerce, and Chair of the Covered Bridge Festival Committee. He was also actively involved in the filming of both the Bridges of Madison County and Oprah’s visit to Cedar Bridge when the movie was released.

While Terry enjoyed cheering for the Iowa Hawkeyes and spending time at Sun Valley Lake with his lake friends, his greatest joy was Terri, the girl from Winterset High School who became his wife and remained the love of his life across 46 years of marriage. To Kelsey and Jordan, he was not only a father but also a best friend. He was their biggest cheerleader and would have done anything for them.

Terry’s life was defined by quiet sacrifice, unwavering devotion, and a deep and abiding love for his family. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered by all who knew him.

A visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, April 27, 2026, at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, Winterset Chapel. Private burial will take place at a later date in the Winterset Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Lakeview Country Club or Madison County Health Trust.