Terry Martin Hauger, 80, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2026, in Lansing, Michigan.
Born on April 20, 1946, in Mount Vernon, Ohio, Terry was the son of Ellis and Ina Hauger. He graduated from Mount Vernon High School in 1964 before earning a degree in Journalism from Ohio University in 1968. Shortly after graduation, he began his career with The Saginaw News in Saginaw, Michigan, where he dedicated his professional life to advertising until his retirement.
Terry found his greatest joy outdoors. He was an avid fisherman who also loved hunting and golfing with family and friends. He generously gave his time as a volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters, mentoring young people and making a lasting difference in their lives. He was also a longtime member of Immanuel Bible Church in Saginaw, Michigan, where his faith was an important part of his life and where he found a welcoming community for many years.
One of Terry’s lifelong pleasures was the spirited rivalry between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Michigan Wolverines. Although he spent most of his adult life in Michigan, he remained a devoted Ohio State fan, proudly cheering for the Buckeyes and never missing the opportunity for a friendly wager when the two teams met each fall.
Terry married his high school sweetheart, Linda Cotton of Mount Vernon, Ohio, and together they raised three sons. Following Linda’s passing in 2004, Terry married Patricia Pickens in 2006, becoming a devoted husband and a caring stepfather to her son, Darren Pickens.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Linda Hauger; his parents, Ellis and Ina Hauger; and his sisters, Jean Ann Hauger and Jennifer Hauger.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Patricia Pickens of Oscoda, Michigan; his sons, Matthew and Mary Hauger of Tucson, Arizona, Stephen and Ginny Hauger of Spotsylvania, Virginia, and Brian and Lorraine Hauger of Lansing, Michigan; his stepson, Darren Pickens of Tucson, Arizona; eight beloved grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; and his sister, Joan “Jodi” Collier and her husband, Michael Collier, of Cave Creek, Arizona.
To honor Terry’s memory, an informal memorial service followed by a brief reception will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Chapel Hill Mortuary and Cemetery, 6476 Midland Road, Freeland, Michigan 48623.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wings of Mercy, whose mission reflects Terry’s generous spirit and compassion for others.