Terry was born on June 18, 1950 to Owen and Sylvia (Olson) Harland in Cando, ND. He grew up in Egeland, ND where he attended school. He enrolled in The US Navy and completed his A school training in San Diego and was sent to Vietnam. He was honorably discharged.
Terry worked for the City of Cando as a water treatment operator/street superintendent. He belonged to the Towner County Wildlife Club, Ducks Unlimited, VFW and American Legion. He was an avid hunter and fisherman.
Terry is survived by his children Patrick Harland and Rico Harland; grandchildren Autumn, Garrett, Kadence and Karson; sister Carole, niece Sue Ann Dolinger.