Jon Kristian Terp

Jon Kristian ("Kris") Terp, 60, of Tonka Bay, Minnesota, passed away on Thursday evening, April 9, 2026, after a 2½-year battle with lymphoma (ALK+ LBCL). Kris was a larger-than-life presence. Bold, passionate, endlessly social, and never one to do anything half-heartedly. He lived with intensity, humor, and a deep love for the people in his world. Whether he was building a business, traveling with friends, or holding court in a room full of laughter, Kris left an impression that was impossible to ignore. He is survived by his three children: Olivia Crum (Jamie), Gabriella DenHartog (JT), and Dalton Terp (Lauren), who carry forward his spirit, strength, and resilience. He was deeply proud of his children and the lives they've created. After the loss of their mother, he became their rock and their home, forging a bond that was deep and unshakable, built through everything they faced together. They were the center of his world, and everything he poured into life and business was ultimately for them. He devoted his life to his children, and the bond they shared shaped every part of his life. He was also a proud grandfather to Michele (3) and Bo (1), who brought him immense joy and a special kind of pride that only grandchildren can. In many ways, Kris had the energy of a three-year-old, so he fit right in. Kris was preceded in death by his parents and by his wife, Shelly, the mother of his children, who passed away from breast cancer in 2002. Her loss left him a young widower raising three children, something he met with determination, perseverance, and fierce commitment. In the later chapter of his life, Kris found deep companionship with his wife, Steph, his "Buttercup" and partner of nine years, whom he married in September 2024. Together, they shared a vibrant life filled with travel, social gatherings, and a very wide circle of cherished friends. Their relationship was marked by joy, loyalty, humor, pampering their dog Nugget, and a shared ability to not take themselves too seriously. Professionally, Kris was an entrepreneur and innovator through and through. In the 1990s, he founded 1Micro, a company he built from the ground up into a successful and widely respected business. His original product, the one that started it all, is now used in dealerships worldwide, a testament to his creativity, drive, and ability to see what others couldn't. In the years that followed, he continued developing new ideas and products at a pace that became something of a running joke among those who worked for him. The company became a legacy, employing not only many people, but also his son and both sons-in-law, something that brought him immense pride. Kris had a deep reverence for his faith in Jesus Christ and gave God the credit for all he had accomplished. His faith was grounded in humility, honesty, and a deep awareness of his need for grace. He didn't hide his struggles and imperfections, and that authenticity made his faith both real and deeply felt. Kris will be remembered for his big personality, his sharp wit, and his refusal to live a small life. He loved deeply, engaged passionately, and showed up wholeheartedly, always. Even in dying, he would keep the room laughing. He would joke about wanting to be buried upright in the Florida Keys, wearing a top hat and monocle. Because in true Kris fashion, even in the end, you've got to keep things interesting. He leaves behind a legacy of resilience, heart, brilliance, and unforgettable presence. He will be deeply missed by his family, his friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. A service to celebrate Kris's life will be held on Friday, May 8, at Grace Church in Eden Prairie (9301 Eden Prairie Rd, Eden Prairie, MN 55347). Enter door 1. Visitation will take place from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., followed by the service at 3:00 p.m. A private family burial will take place afterward. Guests are invited to gather immediately after the service for a celebration of life at Jax Cafe (1928 University Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418). The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the medical team at Mayo Clinic, especially Dr. Villasboas-Bisneto, for their exceptional care, compassion, and dedication throughout Kris's journey.www.washburn-mcreavy.com Eden Prairie Chapel 952-975-0400

Jon Kristian Terp

May 8, 1965 - April 9, 2026

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