Call now for immediate attention: 772-999-5547
Call now for immediate attention: 772-999-5547
Call now for immediate attention: 772-999-5547
Call now for immediate attention: 772-999-5547
On August 18, 2021, Tracey Jeanne Terpstra could not refuse the call of her husband, Mark Terpstra, to join him on a one-way adventure to a place those left behind can only dream about. Her late husband passed on the same day, four years prior, so while this loss comes as a complete shock and overwhelms us all with sadness, we can at least be comforted in the knowing that their beautiful love story continues in eternity.
Tracey was born on September 27, 1962, in Montclair, New Jersey. Her first ten years were spent in Wayne, NJ where she attended Montclair Kimberly Academy. Following a move to Kinnelon, NJ, she graduated from DePaul High School and later, received a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications from Marymount College in Tarrytown, NY (1984). She started her career at NBC Studios in New York City as a Page. She has shared numerous stories about this time in her life and how magical it was – highlighting the life-long friendships made. Despite her gradual climb up the corporate ladder and working on shows like Late Night with David Letterman and Saturday Night Live, as any Page during that time will tell you, “Once a Page, always a Page.”
Tracey married the love of her life, Mark Terpstra, on August 28, 2004, and moved the family to Vero Beach, FL in 2009. Together they created a relationship that left all of us in awe and firm believers that soulmates do exist. Family was their number one priority and their two sons, Ryan Scott and Michael John, are the truest example of what comes out of an epic love story. Their weekends, and any free time gifted, was dedicated to family which was typically evenings at home playing cards or chess, having some wine by a roaring fire while listening to their most cherished classics …especially Tracey’s favorite, Bruce Springsteen.
She returned to work as the secretary and admissions coordinator at St Helen’s Catholic School in Vero Beach. It would be here that her faith was nurtured and strengthened, and where she would make a lasting impact on so many students, parents, and staff.
Tracey was predeceased by her father, Richard Michael Timothy (2006) and her husband, Mark Terpstra (2017). She is survived by her sons, Ryan Scott Terpstra and Michael John Terpstra, her mother, Lynne Gilbert Timothy of Vero Beach, FL, her brother, Michael Sean Timothy of Boise, Idaho, and her sister, Jennifer Lyn Timothy of Vero Beach, FL. She is also survived by her niece and nephews: Casey, Colin, Matthew, Jake and Cole.
A Mass at St Helen Catholic Church will be celebrated at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation (thank you cards, food, care packages) in Tracey’s name to the ICU medical staff at Cleveland Clinic, Vero Beach.
Our caring professionals are here to assist you and your family during this difficult time. We are available 24 hours, 7 days a week to assist in immediate arrangements or pre-arrangements.
Caryn Toole
August 23, 2021, 6:19 pm
What a beautiful legacy you created Tracey, your boys will always know true love. You will be missed and remembered forever my sweet friend.
Lisa Bell
August 23, 2021, 6:26 pm
Although our lives are forever changed with the loss of our dear Tracey, our lives are forever changed by knowing and loving her.
Susan Wardrop
August 23, 2021, 6:52 pm
I was fortunate enough to meet Tracey in the early 2000’s at Weichert Realtors in Kinnelon. We became fast friends. We both had young children, similar ages and had a lot in common. Her love of life was infectious! I was blessed to have the privilege to call her my friend. My heart is breaking as I type this knowing the pain her two sons must be feeling, but then to know she is with Mark again, the man that was the true love of her life is just so beautiful, and such a fitting ending for their story. Much love and hugs to her family. I am so happy I knew her.
Carolyn Dean
August 23, 2021, 7:35 pm
Tracey was truly the “Queen of Everything” at St. Helen School. She was a friend, sister, counselor, problem solver, and fellow widow sharing one of life’s deepest losses. I will miss her until she and Mark and john and I are together again. Thank you Lord Jesus for sharing such a beautiful person with us.9
Pat and Teresita Collins
August 23, 2021, 8:21 pm
The smiling face at the front desk of St. Helen School will be forever missed! Continued prayers for Ryan and Michael and all who loved Tracey!
Kara Lawson
August 23, 2021, 8:27 pm
It was my family’s honor to know Tracey through St. Helen Catholic School. Her radiant smile and her joyous laughter will certainly be missed. She truly was a blessing to our school community.
The Stoddard Family
August 23, 2021, 8:55 pm
We miss you ❤️
Denise M Boehning
August 23, 2021, 9:39 pm
Heartbreaking for us an we will all miss her. She is reunited with the love of her life. God Bless Ryan and Michael and the rest of the family as you all mourn the loss of such a beautiful lady.
The Boehnings
The Scent Crew
August 23, 2021, 9:53 pm
You have given our family so much love I still know you are watching over us ! How many times did we say I love you to each other and you truly loved my children! We are so blessed to have known you and seen your amazing light ! Thank you …you are soo missed. Triston literally jumped out my car first day of school to go give you a hug …. He said he will give it to you one day in heaven since he didn’t get to that day you are one of those people who are truly unforgettable and really make a difference in people’s lives ! So I will try to make you proud love you !
The Scent Family
August 23, 2021, 9:57 pm
You have given our family so much love I still know you are watching over us ! How many times did we say I love you to each other and you truly loved my children! We are so blessed to have known you and seen your amazing light ! Thank you …you are soo missed. Triston literally jumped out my car first day of school to go give you a hug …. He said he will give it to you one day in heaven since he didn’t get to that day you are one of those people who are truly unforgettable and really make a difference in people’s lives ! So I will try to make you proud love you !
Patti Burgener
August 24, 2021, 12:12 am
Our beloved friend will be greatly missed at St Helen. She always looked after each child personally like they were her own. There is a hole in our St Helen family but we take comfort in knowing you are with your love, Mark! What a beautiful life well lived.
The Askin Family
August 24, 2021, 2:23 am
It is hitting home for us more than last week that this is really it. Last week we were in shock that our vivacious, smart, funny, loving friend Tracey had passed on. Now it’s hitting home that we won’t be getting any more texts or calls from Tracey or running into her while we are out and about. St. Helens will never be the same without her presence at the front desk. The kids and families adored her. She will always be someone Samantha looks up too. Now Sam will look up to the stars for reassurance from Tracey . Our love and condolences go out to Ryan, Michael, Jen, her mom and extend to the families and friends of Tracey. May she Rest In Peace with her soulmate Mark.
The Mark Family
August 24, 2021, 3:27 am
Our hearts ache to hear this sad news. Tracey was the first person we met when we went school hunting in Vero Beach. She guided us every step during our sons middle school year’s and always gave her everything. She made a huge impact on so many of us and will be terribly missed. Our deepest sympathies to her family.
Thomasina Gesumaria
August 24, 2021, 2:24 pm
My heart is broken and I will miss my friend very much. We had many good times together, great memories I will never forget. She is now with the love of her life and I am sure she is smiling down on all of us. My prayers and love go out to Ryan, Michael and the family as they go through this difficult time.
Maria Morgan
August 24, 2021, 10:38 pm
I miss you making me laugh everyday. I miss all the little things you did for me every week. I miss seeing your smiling face every time I open the glass door to the office. I miss everything about you. You are so very missed by so may, but I know you are in heaven with your soulmate! Lots of Love, prayers, and condolences to Ryan, Michael, and the Timothy family.
Kimmy Mullin
August 24, 2021, 11:16 pm
We never got to do our “catch up” trip to Lake Tahoe, it was something I was looking forward to…Getting to see my dear cousin once again, after so many years….. I have some cherished photos of us when were little, that are so special . My heart is breaking for your family. My prayers are with them at this difficult time. I know you are with Mark sweet Tracey, and will watch over Ryan and Michael. A beautiful angel from above!
Patti Coscia
August 25, 2021, 1:41 am
My heart is broken . As I write this tears roll down my face. I’m sad because you were an amazing soul that made this world a better place and not being able to ever hear your voice again really hurts. I’m happy that you are reunited with Mark but God knows I will miss you. Your boys will be fine, you raised them well and they are strong. All my love to you Tracey, you will be in my heart forever ♥
Steven Vause
August 25, 2021, 4:42 am
I am deeply saddened to hear the news of Tracey’s passing. I was fortunate to have met and worked with her at NBC when we were both Pages in 1985. We hit it off right away. She was always filled with positive energy and fun, and always had a radiant smile. I am very grateful to have known her. My heartfelt condolences to her two sons, her mother, siblings and extended family. Sending prayers of peace during this difficult time. ❤️
Kim Dionisio
August 25, 2021, 12:45 pm
I am so very sad to hear of Tracey’s passing. We enjoyed lots of fun times with Tracey & Mark at the many parties in their neighborhood in West Milford. I have kept in contact with Tracey over the years through Facebook and every single interaction we had was about our families. Her love for Ryan & Michael and the pride she felt for both of them was the thing I will remember most. I am sure that she had a joyous reunion with her soul mate, Mark when she got to Heaven, but I know that if she had a choice she would still be here. May she rest in the sweetest peace. I will keep all of you in my prayers, especially Ryan & Michael.
Lisa Parker
August 26, 2021, 6:54 pm
Dearest Tracey
You are one of Gods “shiny people” his love radiated from you. Strong and bright!
I know anyone whom was in your presence felt your love. Safiya and I were blessed and our life was better because of your love and kindness. I know it’s no accident that you joined your husband on the day you did and I know your in eternal bliss. I know your sons will carry on your footsteps …
Much love Lisa and Safiya
Ralph and Doreen Mandarino
August 26, 2021, 6:55 pm
I did not know a lot of the wonderful history of Tracey’s life, but I do know her boys will know overwhelming love from this community. It is a terrible loss from this horrible disease. If we learn anything It should teach us to get to know people more and love and appreciate our families while our loved ones are here.
Gemma Fernandez
August 27, 2021, 1:41 am
Thank you Miss Tracey. Our condolences to the family. From Fernandez
Kathleen Provancher
August 27, 2021, 12:27 pm
My prayers and love to Tracey’s friends and family but especially her boys that she loved with all of her heart.
Aimee Hardin
August 28, 2021, 1:18 pm
I’ve avoided writing anything on here, like somehow it was going to help it not be real. Tracey, you are such a bright and precious soul! My beautiful friend, you were there for so many milestones in Harley Grace’s time at St. Helen’s and you laughed and cried and celebrated with me for all of them. Harley Grace and I are truly heartbroken. I will miss the e-mails, calls and jokes between us, and your most infectious smile and big tight hugs. I’m so grateful to have had you in our lives. My heart aches for your boys and your family, but my spirit rejoices in knowing you are with Mark in the place prepared for you. I pray for comfort, peace and strength for your family and for our St. Helen’s family as well.
I hope there are tons of dragonflies in heaven… not so every time you see one, you think of me, but so every time you see one, you will know I am thinking of you.
All our love, always
Wilma Connell
August 29, 2021, 7:14 pm
Our deepest condolences to Ryan, Michael and family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless you with his peace and keep you in his care. ~ The Connell Family
Elaine Klizos
August 30, 2021, 12:36 pm
I was lucky enough to know Tracey in HS she was an amazing gentle soul. My prayers to her mom and sons May you always smile when you think if her( she did have the BEST smile) prayers for all who will greatly miss herTill we meet again
Kim SMALL
September 22, 2021, 2:23 pm
I had the pleasure of meeting Tracey & Mark through the real estate aspect of life. My sincere condolences to the entire family as this is a great loss.
Maggie
September 30, 2021, 5:32 pm
I met Tracey working at NBC in the 90’s. We had the most fun together. We kept in touch through the years on Facebook. I will miss her terribly. Her boys are in my thoughts and prayers. I have to believe her Soul is with Mark. I love you Tracey
Karen Jorden
October 5, 2021, 5:57 pm
I just learned of this sad news, my heart is breaking for her friends, her mother and siblings but mostly for her two sons. It seems like a lifetime ago that Tracey and I became friends, we worked together at NBC, we were room mates for a short time, we commuted to the city blasting the radio from Tracey’s car, we would sing so loud people 5 blocks away could hear us. I’m sure there was a choir of angels welcoming Tracey as she was “Knockin on Heaven’s Door”.