Theron Dyre Childs, III

Theron “Terry” or “T-Childs” Dyre Childs, III, 84, of Pullman, Michigan, died peacefully, Saturday, February 7, 2026 at Woodland Terrace in St. Joseph.

His life began July 6, 1941 in Michigan City, Indiana, the oldest of three children born to Theron Childs, Jr. and Ruth Ramlow.

T-Childs grew up in Three Oaks and graduated from Three Oaks High School. He then proudly held a degree in business from Ferris State University, then went to start his own asphalt and paving business, Square Deal Paving. Terry was an avid skier and instructor in Aspen for a short time as well. He married Debbie Zemke in 1983 and was a loving step-father who shared a close and meaningful relationship with his step-daughters, who he cherished as his own even after they parted amicably. He was a friend to many and never met a stranger.

Terry will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by; three daughters, Nichole (Chad) Stewart of Bridgman, Michelle Tribett of Bridgman, Sara (Jason) Coleman of Baroda,  

four grandchildren, Karsyn Stewart, Cooper Stewart, Hannah Tribett, Logan Tribett, one great grandson, Houston Brown, special friend and care-giver, Geralyn Waldschmidt,  one niece, Carissa Gray-Sobol, and one nephew Joe Gray.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a step-mother, Trudy Childs, one sister, Ann Gray, and one brother Jeff Childs.

Family and friends will gather Friday, February 13, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 in Wagner Family Funerals Pobocik Chapel, 106 Ash Street East, Three Oaks.

Terry will be laid to rest in Forest Lawn Cemetery.

The family prefers contributions in memory of Terry be made to Casco United Methodist Church, 880 66th Street, South Haven, Michigan 49090.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner Family Funerals Pobocik Chapel, Three Oaks. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.

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