Terry Cruikshank

Terry Cruikshank, 49, of Olyphant, died Sunday at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, following a brief illness. He is survived by his loving wife of 17 years, the former Cathy Smith.Born in Wilkes-Barre, Terry graduated from E.L. Myers High School. He was the son of the late Phil Jones Cruikshank and Geraldine Slabinski-Cruikshank.In June, Terry was suddenly and unexpectedly diagnosed with cancer. He never faltered or cowered, he was determined to tackle his illness head-on and make a full recovery so he could continue sharing his gifts and return to his passions: sculpting, creating and enjoying his life with his lovely wife, Cathy. For more than 10 years, Terry was self-employed as an artist, specializing in sci-fi and horror dolls and sculptures. Terry loved attending horror conventions, including Chiller Theatre, Monster Mania and Spooky Empire. He was living his dreams, bringing the images and ideas in his wild and creative imagination to life. His unique brand of creativity and talent touched thousands. He was a very loving and devoted family man. Terry was generous and kind and was always thinking of others. He was never bitter or negative. He always looked at the bright side. He was always a kind, joyful spirit. Terry also enjoyed traveling to Florida to spend time at the beach and watching vintage horror movies. Before his illness, he was vacationing with Cathy in Orlando, Fla., and Hilton Head, S.C. Sadly, his illness was too aggressive and he left us far too early. This world has lost someone truly special and he will be missed by all who knew him.He is also survived by his brothers, Phil and wife, Mary, Dallas; and Jay and wife, Lisa, Hanover Twp.; sister, Cindy Lee, Wilkes-Barre; brother, David and wife, Asia, Plymouth; and sister, Laurina Fauber and husband, Fritz, Wilkes-Barre.He was also preceded in death by his uncle, Archie Cruikshank.Memorial services will be Friday at 7 p.m. in the Hudak-O’Shea Funeral Home Inc., 115 Garfield Ave., Olyphant. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.Friends may call Friday from 4 to service time.In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Northeast Regional Cancer Institute, 334 Jefferson Ave., Scranton, PA 18510-2438, Geisinger Medical Center House of Care, 100 N. Academy Ave., Danville, PA, 17822-2800 or consider blood donation.For directions and online condolences, visit www.hudak-osheafuneralhome.com.