terry biddle obituary

Remembering Eau Claire's Terry Biddle With A Memorial Truck Convoy

On a clear Friday night in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, the rumble of semi truck engines filled the air. Over 50 brightly lit rigs gathered at Nuss Trucking and Equipment for a memorial convoy to honor the life of Terry Biddle, who passed away earlier this month at age 70.

Biddle was a beloved father, husband, friend, and former Eau Claire County Sheriff's deputy who dedicated 20 years of service to the department. He also founded Eau Claire’s beloved Big Rig Truck Show, which would have kicked off its 14th annual event on the day of the memorial convoy.

From Deputy Sheriff To Trucking Aficionado

During his two decades with the Sheriff's Office, Biddle wore many hats. He worked as a jailer, patrolman, pilot, and SWAT commander. But his passion outside of law enforcement was big rig trucks.

Biddle purchased his first semi truck in the late 1970s, a powder blue Pete. This kicked off a lifelong love of big rigs. Not only did Biddle get his commercial driver's license and drive trucks, but he became heavily involved in the trucking community.

For Biddle, trucks were more than just 18-wheelers - they represented freedom, friends, and family. His passion led him to launch Eau Claire’s beloved Big Rig Truck Show in 2009. The annual event attracts truck drivers and enthusiasts from all over to admire the massive, decked-out rigs and enjoy camaraderie.

Gathering To Remember A Dear Friend

On August 19th, 2022, instead of the opening night of the truck show, Biddle's friends and fellow truckers organized a memorial convoy to honor his legacy.

Over 50 brightly illuminated trucks gathered at Nuss Trucking and Equipment just after dusk. Drivers came from across Wisconsin and Minnesota to show their love and appreciation for Biddle.

At 7 PM, the trucks began rolling out in a procession through Eau Claire. It was a touching sight - hulking rigs lighting up the night sky in memory of a man who meant so much to the trucking community.

"I loved him dearly like a brother and I miss him terribly," said long-time friend Mary Norton. "He would call me 3 or 4 times a week just to check in. I'm going to miss those calls."

Continuing A Legacy Of Service

While the convoy honored Biddle's life, it also served as a fundraiser for the Eau Claire Police Department's K9 program.

This was a fitting tribute to Biddle, who dedicated over two decades of his life to serving the Eau Claire community as a deputy sheriff. The funds raised through the convoy will help the police department purchase, train, and care for police dogs - extending Biddle's legacy of service.

As the trucks wound through Eau Claire Friday night, with lights flashing and horns sounding, the depth of Biddle's impact was clear. He touched countless lives through his commitment to law enforcement, his infectious passion for trucks, and his deep ties in the Chippewa Valley.

Though Biddle is gone, his memory carries on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those who knew him. The memorial truck convoy allowed the community to come together one last time to celebrate the life of someone they loved.