Robert Louis Terry Sr.

One of the “Greatest Generation”

Bob was born and raised in Heppner, Oregon.

His Dad, Jack, was a rancher and rodeo bronc buster and his Mom, Helen, was a rancher’s supportive wife.

Bob had one older brother, Wayne, who he was very close to.

When Bob was three, the family moved to Thornton, California where his family continued to ranch.

He attended Elk Grove High school and excelled in football, track and basketball.

He went on to Oregon State College on a track and football scholarship.

Six months later the United States entered into WWII and Bob felt compelled to enlist in the Army Air Corps and soon became a P38 fighter pilot at the age of twenty!

He was part of the 12th fighter squadron, South Pacific Theater also known as the “Dirty Dozen”.

He said goodbye to his high school sweetheart, Leona, expecting to not return from war……..

He did survive and shared many stories of what it was like to be twenty and confronted with adversity and loss found only in war.

He also was a pilot in the Korean War and from his experiences in two wars formed very clear views of honor and sacrifice for the good of country.

Later in life he married ………a few times……and raised a family with Anita Saponati.

From this marriage he had four children Bob Jr, Tim, Marina and one wonderful step daughter, Pamela.

Tragically, he lost his youngest daughter, Marina, at the age of eighteen in a car accident.

He remained close friends to Anita till the day she died.

His entire life was lived richly and with purpose.

All that knew him will recall his “Larger than life persona”, independent spirit, edgy sense of humor and genuine compassion for others.

His passion and commitment to causes that meant most to him included driver education, motorcycle safety and Veterans affairs.

Those who knew him well will remember his panatela cigars, his passion for flight, his many years motorcycling rain or shine , his “salty language” and somewhat dirty jokes…..

A wonderful closing note on Bob’s remarkable life was that he reconnected with his high school sweetheart, Leona, about fifteen years ago. She and family members were by Bob’s side when he passed peacefully.

We have no doubt he is with our creator in heaven ………Home at last.

The angels are in for a wild ride with this one!!