Terri Norlene Cain (aka Hillemeier)
Feb. 1, 1960 - April 13, 2023

Terri was born at St. Joseph Hospital in Stockton on February 1, 1960. About two years later, the family moved to Modesto, where Terri was raised alongside her four younger siblings — three brothers and one sister. After graduating a year early from Davis High School in Modesto, Terri worked as a wildland firefighter in the Santa Cruz area. She soon relocated, while working for the CCC, to Northern California, where she spent most of the remainder of her life.

Terri had her first son in 1983 followed by another son in 1986 and finally a daughter in 1988. The family lived in the Willow Creek area for many years. Many good, long summer days were spent on the Trinity River. Terri loved to camp and explore the mountains, rivers, and lakes of Northern California. The family relocated in 1995 to the coast. Like the mountains, Terri loved the coast, the ocean, and all it had to offer. She was a true nature-lover.

Terri was a free spirit, who lived life on her terms. She loved her family and friends unconditionally. Terri had a heart of gold and was always looking out for those in need. She never had much but she never hesitated to share what she had with those around her.

Terri passed away after a long illness on April 13, 2024, at St. Joseph Hospital in Eureka.

Terri was preceded in death by her father, Tony Valdez. Terri is survived by her three children, Josh, Daniel, and Shawnee Hillemeier; mother, Joan Valdez; sister, Kristi Bailey; brother, Mike Cain; brother, Greg Valdez; brother, David Valdez; aunt, Mickey Anderson; four grandchildren, Arianna Hand, Julian Hand, Andrew Hillemeier, and Travis Hillemeier; longtime close friend Semiramis Toops; and many other longtime friends in Willow Creek and on the Coast.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Terri Cain’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.