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SALISBURY, MD – Terry Bruce Nyquist, a beloved husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, great-grandfather, educator, athlete, entertainer, and friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 23, 2026, leaving behind a legacy defined by determination, accomplishment, generosity, and an extraordinary love of people and the places that shaped his life.
Born on February 15, 1942, in Escanaba, Michigan, Terry was the son of Melvin and Shirley (Blomquist) Nyquist. He was the oldest of three sons, Stephen and David, both of whom preceded him in death. He graduated from Graveraet High School in Marquette, where he excelled in football as a quarterback and kicker.
Terry continued his football career at the University of Iowa and Northern Michigan University. At NMU, he twice led the Wildcats in scoring and established records for a 74-yard punt and a 49-yard field goal. He was inducted into the Northern Michigan University Sports Hall of Fame in 1992. He later spent time with the Denver Broncos during the early years of the franchise.
Terry was a lifelong learner, earning bachelor’s degrees in Chemistry and Mathematics and master’s degrees in Education and Secondary Education. He taught mathematics at Graveraet Junior High before returning to Northern Michigan University in Alumni Relations, a role that allowed him to promote and connect the university he loved with alumni around the world.
Later, Terry moved to Salisbury, Maryland, to join Piedmont Airlines as Marketing Director. It was there that a chance airline ticket delivery led to a very long lunch with Nancy Carragher. Their courtship eventually led to marriage and the joining of two families. Together, Terry and Nancy built a life filled with family, friendship, music, food, laughter, and love.
Terry is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy; daughters Nancy and Minda; stepchildren Malinda, Scott, and Shannon; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a wide circle of family and friends.
His greatest legacy is not only the records he set, degrees he earned, or careers he built, but the countless memories he created: laughter around the dinner table, music at the piano, tomatoes from the garden, cocktails at five, cheers from the sidelines, and stories shared with those he loved.
He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever celebrated.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, September 12, 2026 at the Holloway Funeral Hall.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be directed to the NMU Foundation in honor of Terry Nyquist BS '65, MA '68. Memorial gifts will support the Men's Football Program.
Give Online: https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/45738/donations/new Select Men's Football under Designation.
Give by Mail: NMU Foundation 607 Cohodas Hall 1401 Presque Isle Ave. Marquette, MI 49855
Please include: In Memory of Terry Nyquist - Men's Football