08/08/2025
(charlie rood) With a very, very saddened heart, I am posting this lengthy message to tell you longtime member of the WSGW Family, Terry Lenz, has passed away.
More importantly than WSGW was his own family. Terry was a husband to Pam, a Father to Heidi, Valerie, and Greg, and a Grandfather to Madilynn.
Terry started at WSGW on November 15, 1978. From Terry's beginning as host of an evening sports show, to becoming part of "Four for the Morning", and then for many years on the "Terry and Dave in the Morning Show", he entertained, informed, and connected with listeners for 23 1/2 years.
I'm sure many listeners have fond memories. I'm sure many colleagues have fond memories. Three of us still with WSGW worked with Terry: Terry Henne, Art Lewis, and me.
If you'll permit me, I was fortunate to work closely with Terry for roughly ten years. I was his producer for the "Terry and Dave in the Morning Show". We hosted "QuizLine" and "TradeLine" together. We spent 8 hours a day together, Monday-Friday. We shared many laughs and serious moments. I admired his ability to connect with listeners with his clever wit and expansive wisdom. Terry connected because he was a regular guy, living a regular life, who happened to be on the radio. Whenever I'm asked about hosting the morning show, I say it all started with me working with Terry, and how I was doing my best to build on the foundation he created with his daily approach and daily performance. What he started still exists with me today. My best description of Terry is to say he was as comfortable talking about the Three Stooges, Moe, Larry, and Curly, to talking about the Three B's of Classical Music, Beethoven, Bach, and Brahms. Terry could be known for having a gruff exterior, but he was a big ol' teddy bear at heart.
We thank his family for sharing him with us for so many years. I've been exchanging messages with his family during this difficult time and they have provided me with a beautiful obituary which you can read below.
You will note the reference of donations being made in Terry's memory to the Lewy Body Dementia Foundation or the National Parkinson’s Foundation. For the past couple years, Terry was living as best as possible with both. He was in hospice care the past couple weeks.
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In Loving Memory of Terry Lenz
Beloved Broadcaster, Community Voice, and Family Man
August 18,1950 – August 6, 2025
Terry Lenz, a treasured voice of Saginaw and a lifelong advocate for community, music, and sports, passed away peacefully on August 6th, 2025 at the age of 74. His warm voice, kind heart, and steadfast spirit left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
For 25+ years, Terry brought stories, games, and music to life as a respected radio broadcaster. His voice became a familiar comfort to many—narrating not just the play-by-play of games, but the rhythm of a community. Whether behind the mic or in front of a crowd, he had a remarkable gift for connecting people.
His deep passion for music found expression as the longtime emcee of the Saginaw Eddy Concert Band, where he brought energy, history, and humor to every performance. A true sports enthusiast, he proudly announced countless local sporting events—ranging from high school March Madness and Friday night football, to collegiate matchups and even Saginaw Spirit hockey games. His excitement was infectious, and he had an uncanny ability to make every moment feel like the big one.
A proud supporter and Alumnus of the Michigan State Spartans, Terry rarely missed a game—cheering on his beloved Green and White through victories, rivalries, and every March Madness run. Win or lose, his Spartan spirit never wavered.
In retirement, Terry embraced the simple pleasures that brought him both peace and purpose. He found deep contentment in nature—whether walking wooded trails, sitting quietly outdoors, or spending time on the golf course. He also channeled his creative spirit into woodworking, especially intricate scroll saw designs, crafting countless Christmas ornaments and wall hangings that continue to brighten the homes of loved ones. He found joy in watching his favorite sports on TV—and never passed up a square of dark chocolate.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Pam; daughters Heidi Christiansen (Jack) of Indiana and Valerie Sinnamon (John) of Massachusetts; son Greg Lenz of Indiana; and cherished granddaughter Madilynn Sinnamon, who brought him endless joy. Brother Tom (Gretchen) Lenz of Michigan; and Step-Mother Billie Lenz of Michigan.
A private celebration of life will be held with family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Foundation https://www.lbda.org or the National Parkinson’s Foundation https://www.parkinsons.org
Terry gave his voice to the world—and in doing so, gave it heart. He will be deeply missed, and forever remembered.
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Next week, WSGW is planning a "WSGW 75 Celebration" during the WSGW Morning Team Show and Art's Shows.
Several months ago, I found some audio moments from the "Terry and Dave in the Morning Show". I will use those moments as memories of "WSGW 75" and an honor for Terry.
In the future, we'll do another Facebook post for Terry, including some pictures and other comments. This picture is from the mid-1990s.
Thanks for your time and patience with this message.
