Service: Private family services were held.
Julie Ann TerWee was born January 19, 1960 in the Canton, SD hospital to James and MaryAnn (Buse) TerWee. She passed away April 17, 2026 at the age of 66 in Libertyville, IL after a brief illness.
Julie grew up in Fairview, SD where she attended the Fairview School and graduated from Canton High School. She received her college and post-graduate degrees from University of SD (bachelors), University of lowa (masters) and Colorado State (PhD). Her curiosity, love of the fun of science and a desire to help others led to a lifelong career in pharmaceutical research. Dr. Julie TerWee was recognized worldwide for her expertise in bioassays, immunogenicity assays and microbiology.
She contributed to numerous scientific publications in the fields of virology, immunology and pharmaceutical analysis. Julie was described by colleagues as: brilliant, respected, an amazing leader, worked awe-inspiring hours, compassionate, thoughtful and caring. “Julie’s expertise was only matched by her kindness.” “She was someone to aspire to be.”
In addition to her impressive career, Julie loved nature and animals. She enjoyed hiking in state and national parks. She walked the Volksmarch to Crazy Horse memorial several times. Julie had a knack for growing roses. Her tea roses rivaled any that could be found in a floral shop.
Pets were always part of Julie’s life, and she rescued countless dogs and cats. Once part of Julie’s life they received the best of care, often living years beyond their normal lifespan. Preserving the histories of her hometown Fairview and her family was important to Julie. She returned as often as she could to visit family and friends. She will be deeply missed.
Julie is survived by her mother Mary Ann. She was preceded in death by her father James and brother David. Memorials may be directed to CureDuchenne or a charity of your choice.
MaryAnn, I am so sad to hear of your loss of Julie Ann. She was a wonderful person and so accomplished. She looks so much like you. I have pictures of her and David when I used to babysit them. I am heart broken at your loss. I am asking the LORD to comfort and strengthen you in these coming days.
My deepest sympathies to you MaryAnn. Julie was a class mate at CHS. She was brilliant in school and sounds like she used her gift to help others. What a special person. I was one of the youngest in my class and started kindergarten when I was 5. She was 4 ! Wow . I pray for peace and strength and that your heart will heal in time.