Theodore “Ted" Ferring, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on July 25, 2024, in his adopted hometown of Columbus, GA. Born to the late Theodore Ferring and Margaret Sprague on June 2, 1936. Although a native of Dubuque, IA, a place that remained close to his heart, he grew to love the Columbus area having served various stints there during his time in the United States Army. His life and legacy were deeply interwoven with the community he loved and served.
Ted’s early years were shared with his siblings, Robert, Edward, William, and Joseph, creating a tapestry of memories filled with laughter and camaraderie. A graduate of Loras Academy High School in Dubuque, IA, in 1954, he carried his passion for learning and community service. He extended that passion at the University of Nebraska in Omaha, where he earned a degree in History in 1960. He furthered his education by completing a Master of Science Degree in History from the University of Missouri in 1973.
Professionally, Ted joined the U.S. Army in 1957 as an Infantryman and was later commissioned as an Infantry Officer in 1961, where he went on to become an Army Aviator. He became a cornerstone in the U.S. Army Aviation community. His vision and dedication were evident in the tough assignments he undertook. As a two-tour veteran of the Vietnam War, having been awarded the Legion of Merit, Soldier’s Medal, and four Bronze Star medals, he helped shape the way the U.S. Army conducts aviation operations to this day. He retired from the Army in 1990 after an astonishing 32-year career. His time as a Foreign Area Officer and Deputy Commander of the School of the Americas at Fort Moore, GA, helped to ensure the security of the United States for generations.
An avid golfer, Ted found solace in the serenity of walking around a golf course. He spent many years as a cherished member of the Valley Senior Golf Association and served in various capacities during the time he was a member. He loved arranging tournaments and events for the association. He was also very involved in the local senior softball community, having brought to Columbus The North American Softball Association Championship in 2009 and having finished as runner-up in the same competition in 2001. Both organizations lost a committed and loyal member. Although he was long past being able to compete, he truly cherished his time he spent with them.
In 1957, Ted married his lifelong sweetheart, Joan Mary Utzig, in a ceremony that remains a cherished memory for all who attended. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and the joyous hustle and bustle of raising their four children, Theodore, Todd, Timothy, and Tracy (please notice the “T’s”).
Ted’s legacy is also carried on by his adored grandchildren, Nicole, Natalie, Joshua, Christopher, Niel, Christina, Tyler, Noel, and his best buddy, Wilson. Each of them will remember their grandfather for his boundless energy and constant love. Ted’s great-grandchildren, Sullivan, Elena, Vera, Emery, Jacob, Zachary, and Joey, are all blessed to have known him and had a special place in his heart.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Theodore Ferring and Margaret Sprague; his brothers, Robert, William, and Edward. Ted’s memory is honored and kept alive by his loving wife, Joan; children; grandchildren; brother, Joseph; and a host of nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Ted’s Life Memorial Mass will be celebrated at Saint Anne Catholic Church, 2000 Kay Circle, Columbus, GA, with a reception to follow on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 10:30AM. Ted will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery in the near future.
Theodore John Joseph Ferring’s story is one of dedication, love, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community. He will be deeply missed, but the seeds he planted in the hearts of those who knew him will continue to grow and flourish for generations to come. Your kind considerations are greatly appreciated, however in lieu of flowers please make a donation under Ted’s name to the National Wounded Warriors Foundation.
