On March 29, 2025, the world said goodbye to Terrance “Terry” Robert Dolan, a remarkable man whose 63 years were filled with hard work, family devotion, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. Terry, a proud son of Milroy, Minnesota, passed away in Edina, leaving behind a legacy that spans his roles as a husband, father, grandfather, banking executive, and philanthropist. His story is one of resilience, authenticity, and a deep love for life—a tale that inspires us all to live with purpose and heart.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into Terry Dolan’s extraordinary journey, from his rural upbringing to his rise as a leader at U.S. Bank, his passion for family and community, and the indelible mark he left on those who knew him. Join us as we honor his memory and celebrate a life that touched so many.
Quick Facts: Terry Dolan Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Terrance Robert Dolan |
| Born | April 17, 1961, Milroy, Minnesota |
| Died | March 29, 2025, Edina, Minnesota |
| Profession | Banking Executive (U.S. Bank Vice Chair & Chief Administration Officer) |
| Education | B.A. in Accounting, University of St. Thomas |
| Spouse | Susan Mix Dolan, married 1982 |
| Children | Daughters Jane (Chris) and Hannah (Eric); 6 grandchildren |
| Legacy | Philanthropy, leadership, “Terry Dolan Drive” in Chicago |
| Hobbies | Golf, storytelling, tinkering, Irish folk songs |
| Community Impact | Boards of Catholic Charities, Minneapolis Foundation, and more |
From Farm to Family: Terry’s Early Years
Terry Dolan was born on April 17, 1961, into a bustling Irish Catholic family in Milroy, Minnesota. As the tenth of 13 children to Joseph and Evelyn Dolan, Terry grew up on a farm where hard work wasn’t just a value—it was a way of life. Milroy, a small town with wide-open fields and tight-knit roots, shaped Terry’s character, instilling in him a sense of pride in his heritage and a strong work ethic that would guide him throughout his life.
High school was a busy time for Terry, one of just 20 graduates in the Class of 1979. He threw himself into everything—football, basketball, baseball, cross-country, track, theater, and band. Summers found him at Tracy Country Club, swinging clubs and quietly admiring a girl named Susan Mix who golfed ahead of him. True to his shy nature, it took nine months for Terry to muster the courage to call her. That call sparked a love story that would last 42 years.
Building a Career and a Family
Terry’s academic journey took him to the University of St. Thomas, where he earned a degree in accounting. In 1982, he married Susan, the “cute golfing girl” who’d captured his heart, and together they embarked on a life filled with love and ambition. Terry began his career in public accounting before finding his niche in banking—a field where his analytical mind and leadership skills would shine.
The couple welcomed two daughters, Jane and Hannah, and for a time, they lived in Ohio. In 1998, an opportunity with U.S. Bank brought the family back to Minnesota. Terry’s career soared as he climbed the ranks, starting as Controller, then serving as Chief Financial Officer, and eventually becoming Vice Chair and Chief Administration Officer. Known for his tireless work ethic, Terry had a rare gift: he could lead with authority while making everyone feel at ease with his gentle humor and genuine warmth. Colleagues and employees alike admired his ability to solve problems and inspire those around him.
A Man of Many Passions
Beyond the boardroom, Terry Dolan was a man of diverse interests and deep connections. He loved to travel, immersing himself in new cultures and places with Susan by his side. At home, he was a storyteller, regaling family with tales that brought laughter and nostalgia. Each year at the Dolan Family Classic—a golf tournament that celebrated his Irish roots—Terry’s voice would ring out with spirited renditions of folk songs, a tradition that became a cherished highlight for all who attended.
Weekends often found Terry at the hardware store, wandering the aisles with a gleam in his eye. A natural tinkerer, he put his skills to use at the family lake cabin up north, where he crafted memories with his daughters, six grandchildren, and extended family. That cabin was more than a retreat—it was a sanctuary where Terry’s love for those closest to him shone brightest.
A Heart for Giving Back
Terry’s generosity extended far beyond his family. A passionate philanthropist, he believed in lifting up the communities that shaped him. He served on the boards of numerous organizations, including Catholic Charities, the College of St. Benedict, the Minneapolis Foundation, and the Killebrew Thompson Memorial, which supports cancer research. His cultural contributions included leadership roles with the Minnesota Opera, Artspace, and the Cowles Center.
One of Terry’s proudest achievements was his work revitalizing Chicago’s Pullman Community, an effort so impactful that a street now bears his name: “Terry Dolan Drive.” It’s a fitting tribute to a man who poured his heart into making the world a better place.
A Final Farewell
Terry Dolan passed away on March 29, 2025, at the age of 63, leaving behind a grieving but grateful community. He is survived by Susan, his wife of 42 years; daughters Jane (married to Chris) and Hannah (married to Eric); six grandchildren; 11 of his 12 siblings; and a wide circle of nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Rose Oakland, and several in-laws.
Visitation services are scheduled for Wednesday, April 2, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel (5000 West 50th Street, Edina, MN 55436). A second visitation will take place on Thursday, April 3, at 10:00 a.m. at the Church of St. Patrick (6820 St. Patrick’s Lane, Edina, MN 55439), followed by a memorial mass at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Killebrew-Thompson (cancer research) or Catholic Charities—causes close to Terry’s heart.
FAQ: Terry Dolan
Q: Who was Terry Dolan?
A: Terry Dolan was a banking executive at U.S. Bank, a philanthropist, and a devoted family man who passed away on March 29, 2025, at age 63.
Q: What did Terry Dolan do professionally?
A: He served as Vice Chair and Chief Administration Officer at U.S. Bank, with a career rooted in accounting and banking leadership.
Q: When and where are Terry Dolan’s memorial services?
A: Visitation is April 2, 4:00–7:00 p.m. at Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel; a second visitation and mass are April 3 at the Church of St. Patrick.
Q: How can I honor Terry Dolan’s memory?
A: Donations to Killebrew-Thompson or Catholic Charities are encouraged, reflecting his commitment to cancer research and community support.
Q: What was “Terry Dolan Drive”?
A: It’s a street in Chicago’s Pullman Community named in his honor for his revitalization efforts.
Q: Who survives Terry Dolan?
A: His wife Susan, daughters Jane and Hannah, six grandchildren, 11 siblings, and many extended family members.
Conclusion
Terry Dolan’s life was a masterclass in balancing ambition with authenticity, leadership with love. From his humble beginnings on a Minnesota farm to his influential roles in banking and philanthropy, he lived with a quiet strength that uplifted everyone he met. His passing on March 29, 2025, leaves a void, but his story urges us to embrace our passions, cherish our families, and give back to our communities. Terry’s legacy—etched in “Terry Dolan Drive,” the laughter at the lake cabin, and the lives he enriched—reminds us that a life well-lived is one that leaves the world brighter. Let’s honor him by carrying that light forward. #TerryDolan #LegacyLivesOn
