Terry Dorcy Obituary
Terry Dorcy, a resident of Kalamazoo, Michigan, passed away on Monday, January 29, 2024, at the age of 79. Born on July 9, 1944, in Detroit, Terry was the cherished only child of Ellen and Ted Dorcy.
Terry is survived by his wife, Karen, whom he dearly loved and shared 29 years of marriage. A devoted father, he leaves behind five children from his first marriage: Robert Dorcy, Amy Dorcy, Brian Dorcy (Heather), Kevin Dorcy, and Colleen Deswal (Deepender). His dedication to his family was evident in the love and guidance he provided—from coaching and attending sporting events, enjoying their many musical performances, supporting educational pursuits, and the pride he took in his children's accomplishments as adults. Terry also embraced his role as stepfather to Karen's children, Troy and Scott Ostericher. The legacy of Terry's love and guidance lives on through his grandchildren, who brought such immense joy to his life and with whom he created cherished memories that will be held close to their hearts: Madeleine Dorcy, Emma Dorcy, Theodore Deswal, Adelina Deswal, Grace Deswal, Brooklyn-Rose Dorcy, Bryson Dorcy, Teagan Dorcy, Conor Dorcy, and Chloé Dorcy, and his step-grandchildren Leah, Elaine and Ellory Ostericher.
Terry's academic journey led him to Western Michigan University, where he earned a bachelor's degree with majors in Political Science and History. He continued his pursuit of knowledge and earned a Master's degree in Education, specializing in the Teaching of the Disadvantaged. His dedication to education extended beyond his own studies, as Terry embarked on a teaching career at Benton Harbor and Lawton public schools. Subsequently, he transitioned to a remarkable thirty-three-year tenure in labor relations and human resources, contributing his expertise to organizations such as the Indiana State Teachers Association, Michigan Education Association, Teamsters Union, and Kalamazoo Public Schools. Additionally, Terry served for many years as an arbitrator for the National Association of Securities Dealers.
Post-retirement, Terry devoted himself to humanitarian efforts, spending eight years recruiting volunteers for disaster relief in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina along the Mississippi Gulf Coast and New Orleans. Locally, he served as a dispute resolution mediator for Gryphon Place in Kalamazoo County and Citizens Mediation, covering four additional counties in southwest Michigan. Terry also played an active role as a shelter manager for the Kalamazoo Chapter of the American Red Cross and contributed his time to serving meals at Ministry with Community.
Terry Dorcy's impact on education, labor relations, and community service will be remembered with gratitude and admiration. His spirit lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched throughout his remarkable journey.
The family will hold a private memorial service to celebrate Terry's life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Loaves & Fishes or Ministry with Community in Terry's honor.
