Remembering Park District Employee Terry Juliar

When Patch posted the , we received several comments sending thoughts and prayers to Juliar's family, as well as comments remembering the much loved general manger for the district's and

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Patch reader Larry Fies wrote, "Terry was a great asset to the ice skating community. I am saddened by his passing. We all have lost a friend."

Paige Robin, who says she has skated at the rink since she was four and went on to coach there, wrote that Juliar will be sorely missed.

"Terry always made sure to make everyone feel welcome and cared for, from his employees to his customers. He was just someone who was always building people up. Talking to him always brightened my day and I am greatly saddened by this news."

Fond Memories of Collaboration

Many "old timers" at the park district remembered the great collaboration they shared with Juliar throughout the years.

"Terry taught me how to drive the Zamboni back in 1974 or 75 at the Glenview Ice Center. He was one of the reasons I went into Ice Rink management. He enthusiastically encouraged me and built up the confidence of the inexperienced rink-rat that I was," Mark Schneiderman wrote.

Joseph Patrick Prescott shared his memories of how Juliar was a man of action who was tough but fair and calm in his nature.

"In 1972 I registered with the Amateur Hockey Association of the United States as an official. At that time Terry was regarded as one of the top officials, not only in Illinois, but across Our Country. He was one of the few who "walked the walk" instead of being all talk. Over the years, very few knew how good Terry was out on the ice, they just knew him as the big guy who was always around for the events held up in Wilmette. To say the least, Our Hockey Family has lost one it's nicest and most dedicated members," Prescott wrote.

Good Neighbor, Leader

Joe Modrich wrote that Juliar's leadership and contributions were often behind the scenes.

"We will always remember Terry for his dedication and loyalty to Park Districts and Ice Arenas. He could be counted on to help and share knowledge in any situation. At the same time he was never concerned about who received credit."

Former neighbors of Juliar say Terry and Carla were "textbook examples of good neighbors."

"We are former Gurnee neighbors of Terry and Carla. Oh, the fun we used to have at our cul-de-sac parties, progressive dinners, and various outings to the city or other suburban explorations."

Wilmette Park District hired Terry M. Juliar in 1974 to be the manager of the Centennial Ice Rinks, he was the only manager of the rinks since that time.

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