Terry R. Nydegger

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Terry Nydegger, a man whose life was defined by selfless service, unwavering integrity, and an enduring commitment to the people and communities he loved. Terry was born on April 4, 1950, in Macomb, Illinois, to Dean and Dorothy Nydegger, who preceded him in death. He passed away at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy that few can equal.

For 48 years, Terry proudly served the citizens of Sangamon County with honor, dedication, and distinction. He joined the Sangamon County Rescue Squad in 1978, and rose through its leadership ranks, ultimately becoming Chief of the Sangamon County Rescue Squad in 2019. Throughout his remarkable career, he worked alongside Illinois State government officials, the Springfield Police and Fire Departments, the Illinois State Police, and numerous other public safety agencies throughout the region.

Terry joined the New Berlin Police Department in 1990, and was appointed Chief of Police in November 1998, a position he held for nearly 28 years and until his death. He also served for 24 years as a paramedic with the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Tactical Response Unit, providing medical support during demanding situations that required specialized training, sound judgment, and close coordination with law enforcement. A lifelong learner with a wide range of skills, Terry was also a licensed private pilot, qualified to fly both single-engine airplanes and helicopters.

As the longest-serving active member of the Sangamon County Rescue Squad, Terry’s calm demeanor, steady leadership, and extensive experience guided fellow responders through countless emergencies. He was also a founding member of the ESDA Rapid Response Dive Team and spent decades training in rescue, diving, emergency medicine, tactical response, and public safety. Whatever the circumstances, Terry never hesitated to answer the call.

While his accomplishments were many, those who knew him best remember the man behind the badge. He was a trusted mentor, respected leader, loyal friend, and devoted public servant whose strength was matched only by his humility and compassion. He led by example, freely shared his knowledge, and inspired others to become their very best.

Terry believed that serving others was more than a profession; it was a calling. His influence reached far beyond emergency scenes and police work, touching the lives of family, friends, coworkers, and countless members of the community. His passing is a tremendous loss to the Village of New Berlin, Springfield, Sangamon County, and the entire public safety community.

Terry was preceded in death by his wife, Janine, and his parents, Dean and Dorothy Nydegger.

He is survived by his sister, Cindy Parkhill of Springfield, IL, and her children, Amy Parkhill and her daughter, Alise and Miles (Courtney) Parkhill and their daughters, Drew and Birdie, of Springfield, IL; his brother, Randy (Penny) Nydegger of Jacksonville, FL, and his children, Ben (Jill) Nydegger of Bloomington, IL, and Amanda (Josh) Brown of Jacksonville, FL.

Terry is also survived by the bonus family he shared with Janine: daughters Jacqueline (László) Russell of Longboat Key, FL, and Jessica (Kevin) Russell of Springfield, IL; grandchildren Jake (Kayla) Garrett of Dawson, IL, and Jayceline Russell of Columbia, MO; and two beloved great-grandchildren.

Rest in peace, Chief. Your watch has ended, but your example will guide those who follow in your footsteps.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Terry Nydegger First Responders Fund through the Sangamon County Rescue Squad Not for Profit (SCRS NFP/TNFRF, 8616 State Route 124, Sherman, IL 62684-8460).

Visitation and Funeral Services: The family will receive friends from 3:00-6:00 p.m., with a First Responders walk through at 5:00 p.m., on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at First United Methodist Church, S. Koke Mill Rd, Springfield, IL 62711.

The Funeral will be held at 10:00 am, Wednesday August 26, 2026, at First United Methodist Church, Springfield, IL. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery, Springfield, IL.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL 62703.

Please visit www.butlerspringfield.com to offer condolences.