Obituary of Janis “John” Terins
Janis "John" Terins Obituary
With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Janis "John" Terins on January 5, 2024, at the age of 82. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, John left this world leaving behind a legacy of resilience, kindness, and an unquenchable zest for life.
John was born in Riga, Latvia, on June 23, 1941, to Arnolds and Vilma Terins. His early life was marked by the tumult of World War II. At the age of three, John’s family fled the Communist Russian invasion of Latvia and found shelter at a displaced persons camp. This period instilled in him a resilience that would define his character for the rest of his life. A poignant symbol from these early years was his father's collection of stamps, an asset that would inadvertently become a lifelong motif for John.
After the war, John's family was sponsored to relocate to the United States, settling in Lakewood, New Jersey. Here, John's father earnestly worked on a chicken farm, demonstrating a strong work ethic and determination to provide for his family. His diligence and steadfast commitment were crucial during this period of rebuilding their lives. Notably, during the onset of the war, his father had sent a collection of stamps to relatives in Canada for safekeeping, understanding the uncertainties that lay ahead. This prudent decision paid off, as these stamps were eventually reclaimed and became a symbol of resilience and resourcefulness for John's family. This allowed them to move to Manhattan, New York City, and opened a stamp store on 2nd Avenue between 43rd and 44th Street, specializing in United Nation stamps.
John's educational journey led him from Stuyvesant High School to New York University, where he earned a Bachelor's in Business. His loyalty to his family led him to join his father as a stamp dealer. With John’s help, A. Terins Stamps became a world-renowned dealer for United Nations stamps, publishing the Terin’s United Nations Specialized Catalog.
It was during a business trip to Miami that John met the love of his life, flight attendant Jane McCormack. Their meeting was serendipitous; despite meeting in Miami, Jane lived just around the corner from John's stamp store in New York. This coincidence blossomed into a loving marriage on August 30, 1969, in Upper Arlington, Ohio, Jane's hometown. Their union, spanning 54 and a half years, was filled with love, mutual respect, and shared adventures.
John's career was as multifaceted as his interests. Not only was he a renowned philatelist in New York City, but he also founded and operated BPS, a printing company in Union, New Jersey. His entrepreneurial spirit was matched by his commitment to service, as evidenced by his six years in the National Guard, culminating in an honorable discharge on July 29, 1969.
Described as a Renaissance man, John had a natural knack for building, fixing, and improving things. Whether it was refinishing furniture or tackling home improvements, he was always the go-to person. His love for the outdoors was evident in his passion for gardening, moving rocks, and spending summers in Manasquan, New Jersey — a tradition he cherished and passed down through generations. Among his favorite pastimes was fishing off the beach, a testament to his love for the Jersey Shore and the tranquility of nature.
John's affable nature meant he never met a stranger. His genuine interest in people endeared him to many, making him a well-known and loved figure in every community he was part of. As a father, he was deeply involved in his children's lives, coaching their baseball and softball teams and supporting them in all their endeavors. This dedication continued with his grandchildren, whose games and swim meets he never missed. He was often seen bringing his grandchildren to school, the park, and crabbing at Stockton Lake.
John is survived by his devoted wife, Jane A. Terins; his son, Chris, and his wife, Amber; his daughter, Kate, and her husband, Jim Peck; and his six beloved grandchildren, Jake Terins, Ryan Terins, John Peck, Henry Peck, Charlie Peck, and George Peck.
A visitation for John will be held on Sunday, January 14, 2024, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Higgins Home For Funerals, 752 Mount Blvd., Watchung, NJ 07069, followed by a service at 12:30 PM at the same location. Cremation services will be held privately.
A luncheon celebrating John’s life will be held at Bruno’s in Warren immediately following the services.
Memorial donations may be made in honor of Janis "John" Terins to the Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA) 533 W. Uwchlan Avenue, Downingtown, PA 19335. Your donation will contribute to advancing research and providing hope to those affected by Friedreich's Ataxia.
John's journey, marked by resilience, love, and a deep connection with those around him, serves as an inspiration to all. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.
