Lee Darin Terhark

Lee Darin Terhark, Alton, IL age 63, was welcomed into the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Wednesday, September, 23rd, 2025. Lee fought a very difficult battle with advanced prostate cancer with grace, strong faith, and determination. In his passing, Lee leaves behind a legacy of 40 years worth of compassionate work in the mental health field. Upon graduating from Western Illinois University in 1983, and The University of Illinois School of Social Work in 1985, Lee began his professional career at the Jacksonville, IL Developmental Center. He then moved on to establish a prominent career at the Alton Mental Health Center. There, he established a reputation that brought admiration from fellow employees, along with appreciation from many, during his appearances in courtrooms as he monitored and advocated for hundreds of clients needing special care throughout Southern Illinois. He also developed and established a Masters of Social Work internship program with SIU-Edwardsville to work at Alton Mental Health Center. His mentoring skills at the center was well known to be calm, encouraging, and patient which helped students and fellow employees succeed in a challenging and difficult job. Lee loved his family and friends. The special times with his family at their beloved cabin at Matanza Beach was one of his favorite past times. Spending time boating, fishing, the neighborhood fish fries, and spending time with family and friends were always a highlight of Lee's summers. Lee's passion for his Chicago Cubs and the University of Illinois basketball teams, eventually led him to being an integral part of more than one fantasy sports leagues. He spent many hours with good friends, and happy times choosing teams and tracking the teams in his leagues. His bowling league gave him many fun times. Attending the annual Cubs Convention each winter was always another highlight of the year for Lee. These times with family and friends gave them opportunities to recognize and enjoy his tremendous compassion, patience, and joy of life. Lee always had a welcoming smile for everyone and made them all feel so very welcome and loved. Lee was born in Jacksonville, IL on October 13th,1961 to Eugene Frances Terhark and his wife Cheryl Terhark. Lee is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, Dana Sergent Terhark, mother, Cheryl Terhark, sister Kelly Hildum (Ty), sister-in-law, Judy Cline (Mike), niece Melanie Casey (Brandon), two great-nieces, Emilia and Samantha Casey, and many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father Gene Terhark, and his paternal and maternal grandparents. Visitation will be Saturday, September 27, 2025 from 1:00-3:00 PM, at Gent Funeral Home, 2409 State Street, Alton IL, with a second visitation from 1:00-3:00 PM and a service to immediately follow, at Daws Family Funeral Home, 508 W Vandalia Rd in Jacksonville, IL on Sunday, September 28, 2025. Memorials can be sent to 5As-Alton Area Animal Aid Association, 4530 N Alby St Godfrey, IL 62035, or Chaddock Children's Foundation, 205 S 24thSt, Quincy, IL, 62301-9941

Lee Darin Terhark

October 13, 1961 - September 23, 2025