Amusement Park Buzz

The global attractions industry is mourning the loss of Pat Ternes, a longtime leader at Chance Rides whose career spanned more than three decades and left a lasting imprint on colleagues, customers, and partners across the sector.

Ternes, who passed away early Wednesday morning, was widely regarded as a steady, trusted presence within the Wichita-based ride manufacturer and throughout the broader amusement industry. Over the course of his tenure, he became known not just for his technical knowledge and reliability, but for the relationships he cultivated and the personal integrity he brought to his work.

At Chance Rides, a company recognized worldwide for its trains, trams, carousels, thrill rides, and roller coasters, Ternes played a key role in strengthening customer connections and reinforcing the company’s reputation for service. His ability to connect with people—whether long-time clients or new partners—made him a familiar and respected figure at industry events and project sites alike.

Colleagues describe Ternes as someone who consistently went beyond expectations, offering support wherever it was needed and approaching challenges with a calm, solutions-oriented mindset. That willingness to help, paired with a genuine warmth, made him a mentor figure to many inside the organization and a trusted partner to those outside it.

“His impact on our team and those he worked with across the industry will be felt for years to come,” the company noted in a statement.

Ternes’ influence extended beyond individual projects. Over the years, he contributed to a culture of collaboration and customer-first thinking that continues to define Chance Rides as it marks more than six decades in business.

As news of his passing spreads, tributes from across the attractions community reflect a shared sense of loss—not only of a seasoned professional, but of a person whose character helped shape the industry’s culture.

Chance Rides has extended condolences to Ternes’ family, friends, and all who had the opportunity to work alongside him.

In an industry built on creating memorable experiences, Pat Ternes leaves behind a legacy defined not by the rides themselves, but by the people he impacted along the way.