Terry Neil Croup, 76, passed away on June 28, 2024, at Essential Hospital in Sandstone

He was born in Butler, PA, on Jan. 7, 1948, to Donald and Dorothy Croup. Terry graduated from Butler High School in 1965, doing odd jobs until his enlistment in the U.S. Navy in 1968, serving for four years as a cryptologic technician, a specialty job in the USN which supports national intelligence gathering. During his tour, he was stationed in Florida, Anchorage, Alaska and Scotland. He was also part of a special unit, aboard ship, transcribing and sending Morse communications and was honorably discharged.

Upon discharge, he attended the Pennsylvania State Police Academy, in Greensburg, PA, and graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Science Degree in criminology and political science. Terry married Ailene "Gussie" Croup, on July 12, 2003, in Butler, PA. They moved to Hinckley, MN when he retired in 2007, where the two enjoyed dancing, flying kites and rocking on the front porch.

He served in law enforcement in several capacities throughout his life. He was a police officer, a sheriff's deputy and a 911 dispatcher. He also was a real estate agent, private investigator, transport officer, Aero Posse and bailiff. His last six years, from 2017-2023, he worked as a security officer at Allina Hospital, in Cambridge, MN, a job and crew he loved and respected.

Terry belonged to several organizations that had to do with his hobbies, scuba diving, flying and amateur radio. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion.

Terry was preceded in death by his father, Donald Croup, mother, Dorothy Croup, brothers: Donald, Jr. and Thomas. He also lost his furry friends Chica, Dundee and Diamond who he loved dearly.

Terry is survived by his wife of 20 years, Gussie; stepsons: John (Tammy) Schmidt, Jeff (Tracy) Dawson; stepdaughters, Theresa, Jennifer (Justin) Champa; seven step grandsons, four step granddaughters, and four step great grandchildren. Also, left to mourn are his two dogs, Tippo and Schatzi and many dear friends.

There will be a Memorial Celebration of his life on Saturday, at 1 p.m., on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at Faith Baptist Church, 601 2nd St. S.E., Hinckley, MN. Military honors will be held for Terry at the church after the service, followed by fellowship at the church.

Arrangements by Methven Funeral and Cremation Services of Sandstone, MN.

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