Terry G. Opdahl

Terry Glenn Opdahl, age 70, entered into rest on March 16, 2017 at his home in Redondo Beach, CA, due to heart failure. He was born in Chicago, IL, on November 15, 1946 to Leonard and Lenore (Clancy). At a very young age they moved to Southern California where he lived all but four years when he served in the U.S Army
Terry joined the service in 1968 and served his Country admirably during the Vietnam War, earning the rank of CW4. He received an honorable discharge in 1971. His bravery flying helicopters earned him numerous medals, including three Air Medals for Valor, the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, and the Distinguished Flying Cross. After his service in Vietnam, Terry had a very rewarding and successful career as an executive with State Farm Insurance for 35 years. He also continued to fly helicopters for the National Guard for 26 years.
Terry's family and friends remember him for his integrity, intellect and goodness, sense of humor, generosity, and genuine friendship. He traveled extensively with his wife Judith; they sailed in the British Virgin Islands for 15 years. He spent many years fishing with close buddies, and loved to talk helicopters and cars and tell jokes.
He is survived by his wife Judith; "kids" Lisa, Daren and Damon Howe and Adam Farris; his adored grandchildren, Stone Howe (8) and Addison Farris (12); sister Midge; and brother Dan. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A memorial service will be held Friday, March 31 at 2:00pm at the Green Hills Memorial Park Chapel in Rancho Palos Verdes, with Rev. Michael Moorhead officiating. Military rites will be conducted and a private celebration of life will immediately follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Terry's memory can be made to the Cancer Support Community Redondo Beach, 109 W. Torrance Blvd, Ste. 100, Redondo Beach, CA 90277, also honoring his wife, Judith, who is a 27-year cancer survivor.

Funeral Home:
Green Hills Mortuary and Memorial Chapel
27501 S.Western Ave.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
US 90275