Terry R. Owens

April 19, 1945 – July 8, 2025

Terry R. Owens, 80, of West Chicago, Illinois, passed away suddenly on July 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen (Petersen) Owens, and his five wonderful daughters: Kimberly Van Tholen, Jennifer Kvidera, Elizabeth Malgapu (Kevin), Jaclyn Owens-Roenker (Kevin), and Kathleen Owens. He was a devoted grandfather to Dr. Sarah Brock (Christopher Krueger), HK Brock, Jesse Brock, Danny Van Tholen, Tyler Kvidera (Ashley), Olivia Kvidera, Trevor Kvidera, Justin Kvidera, Brennen Kvidera, Jazmyne Malgapu, Alanna Malgapu, Thomas Roenker, and Jonathan Roenker. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren: Kayne Savalas Lowery and Roan Brock. His sisters and sister-in-law also survive him: Judith (Gerald) Hudspeth, Gwen (Don) Lee, Theresa Michaels, Laura (Jeff) Reda, Mary (Anthony) Petersen, Maureen Owens, and Mary Lou (Gerald) Petersen.

Terry was preceded in death by his father, Richard Owens, his mother, Mildred Garrett, and his brother Thomas Owens.

Terry will be remembered for his love for his family and his dedication to his fellow veterans. His sudden passing leaves a deep void, but his legacy of kindness, service, and integrity will live on in all who knew him.

Born in Chicago, Terry enjoyed playing in various drum and bugle corps, where he developed lifelong friendships and a love for music. Later, Terry enjoyed playing the drums for the Royal Airs Drum and Bugle Corps. In 1959, while attending St. Angela’s Catholic School, Terry would take Karen’s roller skates and throw them in the IGA construction site. He would continue to tease her, hanging out with the “Central Avenue” friends, and on her front step. This playful teasing would evolve into a loving relationship and marriage of 58 years. Some of his proudest moments came as a father to his five daughters and as a grandfather to 15. Terry was an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs, the History Channel, black coffee, Jo Mama jokes, and Beep Beep by the Playmates. He was a stalwart presence who laughed loudly and spoke directly, often cutting through the noise of a family gathering with a word or joke. His dry laugh and sharp wit will be sorely missed.

Terry proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, ranking as a Corporal E-4 non-commissioned officer, from 1963 to 1969. Terry served a tour of duty in the Vietnam War, stationed in Vietnam and Japan. During his time with the USMC, Terry continued playing drums, serving as a Field Music Drummer. Other commendations include: Pistol Sharpshooter Badge, Rifle Marksman Badge, Conduct Medal, and Defense Service Medal. His military service instilled a deep sense of duty, honor, and commitment that he carried throughout his life.

Following his honorable discharge, Terry served as a Caseworker and Veterans Advocate for DuPage County Community Services. His career spanned decades during which he was widely respected for his advocacy and dedication to veterans, the elderly, and families in need. One of his proudest achievements was serving as the president of the DuPage County Veterans Memorial, reflecting his lifelong commitment to honoring fellow servicemen and women.

Visitation will be held on Monday, July 14, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Norris-Segert Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 132 Fremont Street, West Chicago, IL.

Funeral services will begin at 11:00 AM at the funeral home on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, followed by Mass at 11:30 AM at St. Mary’s Church, 164 N. Oakwood Ave. in West Chicago. Interment with military honors will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, IL.

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