Terence Dean McCrary

Terence Dean McCrary passed away quietly on Tuesday July 28, 2026 at Iowa River Hospice with his family by his side. 

Terence McCrary was born to Elmer McCrary and Ruth Hoing McCrary, at home in Marshall County, on October 25, 1938. He was the last child to be born at home in Marshall County. He married Frances Darlene Hunt on February 12, 1961. They had known each other from childhood . Terry was a jokester in school, and that served him well in his positions of authority in his life. He was very proud of his service, both in the Marshalltown Police Department and in the military. He served 4 years in the Navy, 5 years in the Army, and 11 years in the Air Force Reserves. He was also a police officer for 27 years, serving as a captain for many of those years. After retiring from military and police service, Terry went into service in the private sector, delivering Winnebago’s all across the country with Fran, and driving a shuttle for river enthusiasts in Colorado. Service defined his life, but at his heart, Terry was a farmer. He loved John Deere tractors, he loved fishing, and he loved the quietude of farm life. He was a talented woodworker, not only able to produce woodworkings, but repair anything made of wood that was damaged. 

Terry is survived by his wife of over 65 years, Fran; daughter Kim Hofstetter-Johnson (C.J.); son Kendall McCrary; grandchildren Nicholas Hofstetter, Peter Johnson, and Jonathan Johnson; and great granddaughters Emersyn and Riley. 

In addition to his parents, Terry was preceded in death by his in-laws Ezra and Lena Hunt, and his son-in-law Bill Hofstetter. 

Mitchell Family Funeral Home has been entrusted to care for Terry and his family. To leave online condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com. Ph. 641-844-1234. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to Iowa River Hospice.