IN LOVING MEMORY OF
Erik Victor
Terp
June 19, 1924 – February 5, 2023
Erik passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones, on Sunday, February 5, 2023. Erik leaves behind his beloved wife of 68 years Eva, his children Peter (Melora), Suzanne and Alison (Ray) and grandchildren Max, Anna, Casper, Erik and Hannah
Born on June 19, 1924 in Vejle, Denmark, Erik was the third youngest of ten children and the last to pass away. Erik grew up in Vejle and later moved to Copenhagen where he studied Mechanical and Electrical Engineering. During his studies he met the love of his life Eva while they both were taking French courses. Eva and Erik were married in 1955 and soon thereafter immigrated to Canada, where they spent the rest of their lives together. They were frequent visitors to their beloved home country, and it was very important for them to keep the Danish traditions and language alive in their daily lives in Canada. Consequently, all 3 children are bilingual.
Shortly after arriving in Toronto, Erik started working for the Canadian British Engineering Consultants, where he later became a partner and remained during his entire career. Erik specialized in water filtration and incineration. He was happiest though when he was in his garden or working in his workshop, being creative. Many close friends and family members have his creations throughout their homes (Muskoka chairs, shut-the-box, bird feeders and so much more). Erik was a true handyman; hiring tradespeople was a last resort.
Erik's positive attitude and easygoing personality was contagious and he had a very special bond with children and animals, who naturally gravitated towards him - we called him the dog whisperer. Erik had a natural ear for music, playing any requested tune or song without notes. Piano music, singing and dancing were always a part of a good party at the Terp house. Erik and Eva took up golf together later in life, and enjoyed the sport up until a Covid-19 put an end to it. Since 1961, the Terp family spent every summer at Lake Kagawong on Manitoulin Island, where Erik loved to fish, a love which he passed on to his children and grandchildren, who continue this tradition with a passion.
Always ready with a big smile and encouraging words, Erik loved to entertain and especially loved to make his children and grandchildren smile. He was famous for his Caesar salad recipe, which he loved to share with friends and family everywhere. Erik was able to do a front flip until his 68 th year (thanks to years of gymnastics in his youth). At his 95th birthday celebration, he said: " When someone asks me how I obtained the high age of 59 - reversed – I always tell them: listen to your body and listen to its signals, do as it tells you; have some interests and hobbies to keep you active; do something – all the time; don't just sit down in front of the TV – be active. Not just your body, but also your brain; be modest; be yourself - but think of others; and have fun – have a drink, Skål!."
Erik will be remembered for his sense of humor, quick wit, being a loving husband, father, grandfather and his overall joy of life.
Memorial and Celebration of Life for Erik Terp will be held at the Danish Lutheran Church, 72 Finch Ave W, North York, ON, on March 25, 2023 at 12 pm, followed by a reception in The Royal Hall located in the church.
Donations can be made in Erik's name to Heart and Stroke Foundation, North York General Hospital, Toronto or the Danish Lutheran Church, Toronto.
Memorial Service
Danish Lutheran Church
12:00 - 1:00 pm
Visits: 0
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