Leon Cass Terry

Leon Terry, a distinguished physician and accomplished neurologist, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2025, in Iowa City, Iowa at the age of 84. Born on December 22, 1940, in Northville, Michigan, he enjoyed a life marked by dedication to his family, medicine, and personal passions.

Cass embarked on his educational journey at the University of Michigan, where he earned both his Bachelor's degree and Doctorate in Pharmacy (Pharm.D.). His pursuit of knowledge took him further to Marquette University Medical School, where he graduated with a medical degree, followed by a Ph.D. in Neuroendocrinology from McGill University. He later enhanced his expertise with an MBA from the University of South Florida, underscoring his lifelong commitment to learning and professional excellence.

Cass began his career as a pharmacist, but it was his determination to serve patients that led him to medical school and into the field of neurology. After completing his internship in Rochester, New York, he served two years in the United States Navy, Public Health Service Corps, stationed at Bethesda Naval Hospital. Cass continued to build his impressive career in Montreal, Quebec, where he completed his residency and earned a Ph.D., and worked as a neurologist for six years before relocating to Memphis, Tennessee. There, he contributed his talents at the VA Hospital and engaged in research with the University of Tennessee at Memphis.

In keeping with his passion for academia, Cass returned to the University of Michigan and the VA Hospital in Ann Arbor, serving as a professor until 1989. His career reached new heights when he accepted the role of Chairman of Neurology at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee, where he also served as Chief of Staff at Froedtert Hospital for a period of time. Following a stellar career that spanned decades, Cass retired from medicine around 2008-2009, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration in the field of neurology. He was renowned for his significant contributions to medical research and for his compassionate care toward thousands of patients.

Cass was not only a respected professional but also a cherished father and grandfather. He is survived by his daughter, Kristin, and her husband, Séamus; his son, Sean; his ex-wife, Suzanne; and his beloved grandchildren, Shane, Gavin, Anna, and Zella. Cass often reflected on his proudest accomplishments, particularly in raising two remarkable children who embody the virtues of kindness and compassion.

Throughout his life, Cass was defined by his intelligence, wit, and endearing sense of humor. He was a man of integrity, instilling in his children the importance of honesty and ethical conduct. Deeply passionate about hobbies ranging from fishing—particularly memorable trips for salmon and steelhead on Lake Michigan—to sports cars and music, he lived life fully, embracing new experiences with enthusiasm.

Sean's Favorite Memories: My father always helped me be the best I could in sports, including hockey and golf. Golf was where my father made his biggest mark, where he taught me not only the mechanics and fundamentals of the swing and how to play, but more importantly, how to be a gentleman, a man of honor, class, and integrity. Fishing on Lake Michigan and Lake Erie for Salmon, Trout, and Walleye is filled with too many great memories to recount. Watching movies and television, particularly our beloved Sherlock Holmes from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle also stands out. He was my best friend and companion.

Kristin's Favorite Memories: My dad would always introduce new adventures and hobbies. We were never at a loss of some new endeavor such as skiing, biking, snorkeling, boating, including sailing on our family sailboat, Synapse, in Montreal. Also, my dad, my brother, my mother and I went on some amazing trips with my dad flying the plane. Above all he wanted Sean and me to get a good education.

Cass's generosity and love extended beyond his family to friends and the community. His legacy will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him, and his memory will live on in the hearts of many.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Zella Irene Terry and Leon Herbert Terry, as well as his uncle, Ken Kahrl, aunt Marvel Kahrl, and cousin, Herbert Kehrl. Cass's remarkable journey on this earth has come to a close, but the impact of his life and work will resonate for generations to come.

The best decision Cass ever made was to turn his will and his life over to the care of Jesus Christ in 2010, thanks to Pastor Dave Duncan of Church in the City, in Milwaukee, WI. Sean and Cass  also attended church weekly in Bettendorf, and at CITC online, every week. This is how we know our father was completely at peace with his own death. Amen!