Terrence C. Halfen

Terrence Halfen, 78, town of Lafayette, died peacefully at home under the care of his children and Heartland Hospice on Friday, June 6, 2025.

Terrence Halfen was born on June 17, 1946, in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, to Lawrence and Viola (Marks) Halfen. He graduated with the Chippewa Falls High School class of 1965 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology and Mathematics from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire in 1969.

In 1970, Terrence made the courageous decision to become a conscientious objector, beginning work at St. Joseph’s Hospital. It was there that he met the love of his life, Marie Isom. The two were married on August 21, 1971, and in October of the following year, they moved into the home they had lovingly built together. They went on to raise four children: Shilo, Eric, Holly, and DeWayne.

Following his time at St. Joseph’s, Terrence pursued further education and earned an Associate Degree in Computer Programming and Operations from Chippewa Valley Technical College in 1989. A lifelong lover of nature and plants, he followed his passion by opening the Halfen Garden Center in 1991. The business flourished—especially after Terrence developed a particular fondness for hostas.

Terrence’s interests were as diverse as they were deep. He enjoyed reading western novels, fishing, traveling, camping, and exploring American history. He was always ready for a lively conversation, particularly on topics like religion and politics. When he wasn't in the garden, Terrence could often be found crafting furniture or working on additions to his home.

During the winter months, Terrence made his home in Shreveport, Louisiana, where he was an active member of Grace Community United Methodist Church. He was also a devoted member of Bateman English Lutheran Church in Wisconsin. His love for learning and community extended into his volunteer work at the Stillson School library and through tutoring students after school at Bateman Church.

Above all else, Terrence cherished his time with family. Nothing brought him greater joy than being surrounded by his grandchildren and great-grandchild.

Terrence is survived by his daughters, Shilo (Famous) Jefferson and Holly Halfen; sons, Eric (Jamie) Halfen and DeWayne (Erica) Halfen; grandchildren, Alexandra (Elizabeth) Campbell, John (Annabelle) Halfen, Aidan Pearson, Zaria Jefferson, Zadia Jefferson, Adison Halfen, Viola Jefferson; great-grandchild, Clark Halfen; sibling, Gerald (Cynthia) Halfen; sisters-in-law, Judy Halfen, BeaLee Halfen, Alice Halfen, and Diane Isom; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Marie; brothers, Lawrence, Norman and Frederick; sisters-in-law, Mary Daley and Kathleen Page; and brothers-in-law, Jerry Daley and Brian Page.

The visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Monday, June 16, 2025, at Pederson-Volker Funeral Chapel, 44 E. Columbia St., Chippewa Falls. The interment will be at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, in Bateman Cemetery, Town of Lafayette, Chippewa County, WI.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, are appreciated.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Marshfield Clinic Cancer Center in Eau Claire and Chippewa Falls, WI, as well as the staff at Marshfield Clinic Medical Center in Marshfield, especially Margaret.