Terry Michael Kach
Ankeny, IA
(August 21, 1948 to October 5, 2020)
Terry “TK” passed away peacefully and comfortably with his wife at his side on Monday, October 5th at Iowa Lutheran Hospital due to complications from Covid. He leaves behind his wife, Tracy Kach; son, Jeremy and daughter, Emma.
Terry was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa on August 21st, 1948 to Donald & Phyllis (Halse) Kach. He was joined at home by brother Doug and later brothers Mark and Randy. There were many shenanigans had on the farm. He truly loved his brothers and they had a special bond. Terry graduated from Cresco High School. Terry was drafted and was a part of the Marine Corp. and did service in Vietnam. He loved his country and was proud to have been part of the Marine Corp. Family. He always said he wished he would have continued and been able to retire from the corp. Along the way he was married and later divorced, but had two wonderful sons, Jeremy and Chad. They were his greatest blessings and he was so proud of them.
Terry had a successful career in the automotive industry and was a driven professional with an unmatched work ethic. He spent his time at several dealerships as a Parts Manager, Service Manager or the Parts & Service Director. Many friendships were formed from these dealerships. With his success he got see the world on several incentive trips. He was able to travel to Australia, England, Scotland, New Zealand, Paris, Spain and Hawaii just to name a few.
On October 15, 1994 Terry was united in marriage to the love of his life Tracy Marie Zmolek. He always joked that it took him a long time to find someone with the same initials. They enjoyed traveling and being around family and friends. On September 7, 2002, their dream came true and they were blessed with a beautiful daughter, Emma Jean Kach. She was his entire world. Terry was fortunate enough to retire early and in that time his focus was taking care of his daughter. Or as Emma would say, he did “Daddy Day Care”. He hauled that girl and her friends around all summer long. I don’t think he ever told her no. Our favorite family time was spent at the Iowa State Fair every August and we looked forward to that every year. He was so proud to see Emma graduate from AHS in 2020 and start her next adventure at the University of Northern Iowa. Terry also enjoyed spending time with his son Jeremy and going to movies together. He was proud of Jeremy’s career with the State of Iowa and that he had purchased his first home. He loved his trips back home to north eastern Iowa to see his friends and family. He was so happy to see so many of you at his daughter’s graduation party. It truly meant the world to him that you were here. They say it takes a village and we have the best friends that have truly become family. He loved you all so much.
Terry and Tracy were just getting settled into being empty nesters and had all kinds of things they wanted to do. Tracy was fortunate enough, to be working from home since March 2020. She got to spend every day with her best friend 24/7. Life is short. Take the vacation – Buy the Shoes – Eat Cake
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, 2 children and his brothers Doug, Randy (Kathy) and Mark. Father-In-Law Del Zmolek, Brother-In-Law Patrick (Jennifer) Zmolek and Sister-In-Law Gwen (Steve) Beck and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Also, his beloved dog, Max. He was preceded in death by his parents and his son Chad.
Terry requested to be cremated and will be laid to rest next to his son, Chad in Jefferson, Iowa. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
The family would like to thank the staff at Iowa Lutheran CICU for their excellent care. Especially: Emily, Charlie, Sarah & Ashley.
Memorial contributions can be sent to the family for Emma’s Education Fund, The Marine Corp. Toys for Tots or the Ankeny Sparkle Run.
