Lasting Memories

Willem Marcus Terluin
1924-Sept. 15, 2010
Palo Alto, California

Willem Marcus Terluin, 86, a resident of Palo Alto, died at home surrounded by family Sept. 15. He was born in Koeta Radja, Sumatra. He was still in school when World War II came to the islands, and spent several years as a POW on the Burma-Siam Railway. In 1952, he married Ida Dede, and the family came to the U.S. in 1959, settling in Palo Alto where they still have their home.

He worked as a technical illustrator for the Stanford University Electronics Lab until his retirement in 1988.

He loved music, growing roses, travel with Ida and playing with his nine grandchildren. Family recalled him as a man of gentle humor, quiet strength and wisdom, and deep faith.

He is survived by his wife, Ida Terluin of Palo Alto; brother Jan Terluin of Kihei, Hawaii; daughters Bernice Harapat of Langley, Wash., Jessica Beheshti of Palo Alto, Marina Remmel of Palo Alto, and Wilma Murray of Stockton, Calif.; son Stefano Terluin of Roseville, Calif.; and and nine grandchildren. Scotty the dog was also his loyal friend to the end, loved ones said.