Terry Lee Sigfusson
August 31, 1957 – July 29, 2026
Terry Lee Sigfusson, best known to many as “Spud,” passed away at the age of 68 on July 29, 2026, after a challenging, yet courageous battle with cancer. He fought with tenacity, strength, and humour right to the end.
Terry was a devoted craftsman, a loyal friend, and a gentle, playful soul who loved his family, history, and a well-crafted piece of wood. Born in Wynyard, Saskatchewan, Terry moved with his family from Prince Albert to Drumheller in 1967. Drumheller served as his home base throughout a long career in the construction industry. In 1980, Terry earned his Red Seal Journeyman Carpenter designation alongside a few fellow Drumheller boys. Anyone familiar with his work knew the remarkable quality he produced—he was a true craftsman through and through. While his work was never quick or cheap, the final products were always built to last and admired by all. Over the years, he completed numerous commercial and oilfield projects, in addition to working overseas in Bermuda and Japan.
In his later years, Terry lived with and cared for his mother, providing comfort and companionship. His siblings will be forever grateful for the devoted care he gave her. Terry was a highly intelligent man with a wealth of information. He loved history, learning, ingenuity, and thoughtful planning. He was also a kind soul who adored children, delighting in being a "big kid" right alongside them—never afraid to be beaned by a snowball or soaked in a water fight. He was the cherished uncle who gave endless piggy back rides, and wheel-barrel rides around the block. A steadfast friend and neighbour, Terry held lifelong friendships and connections that meant the world to him. The family extends a special thanks to Al Kendrick for his unwavering support of Terry: You will always be considered part of our family, and we love you for being there for him—and for us—always.
The family also extends a heartfelt thank you to the Drumheller Hospital and Palliative Care team (Claire) for the compassionate care they provided to Terry during his final days. Also a heartfelt thank you to Dr. J. Britz and Dr. Rehan for such kind care and respectful attention. Shortly before his passing, Terry enjoyed day passes from the hospital that allowed him to spend time at home. Sitting in his garage—his true happy place—with a beer and smoke in hand, stereo playing, and surrounded by family, friends and neighbours which brought him immense joy. He never asked the world for much; he led a simple life with simple needs, finding his greatest happiness among his tools, his garage, and a solid piece of wood ready to craft.
Terry is survived by his siblings Maggie and Terry Nelson, Garth and Leslie Sigfusson, Alan Sigfusson, Sandra and Peter Brak and Susan and Keith Hempel; five nieces and six nephews; six great-nieces and eight great-nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents Steinie (Siggy) and Beryl, sister Jo-Ann Sigfusson and sister-in-law Adele Sigfusson.
Terry was deeply proud of his Icelandic heritage—so much so that he built his own Viking boat for his journey to Valhalla. His original wish was for it to be set ablaze on the water upon his passing, but he eventually conceded that it was too great a work of art to destroy and chose the family farm instead. We find it deeply fitting that his final resting place will be where our family first took root.
In keeping with Terry’s wishes, there will be no formal service. Instead, family and friends are invited to sit in their garage, shop, or favorite happy place and raise a beer in his honour. His ashes will be spread on the Sigfusson farmland in Wynyard, Saskatchewan, where he was born and where generations of family memories of hard work and adventure were made. He will be forever loved and deeply missed
This obituary is published with permission of the family of Terry Lee Sigfusson and may not be copied © 2026