Terry W. Opell, 81, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026, surrounded by the Opell clan he loved so dearly.
Terry was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Agnes (Gordon) Opell, and his father-in-law, Carl Krumwiede.
He is survived by his mother-in-law, Louise (Fritchley) Krumwiede; his beloved wife of 60 years, Nancy (Krumwiede) Opell; his daughters, Theresa Gartner of Vincennes, IN, Laura (Ray) Whitson of Candler, NC, and Kris Opell of Vincennes, IN.
He is also survived by his grandchildren: Haley Anderson, Tristin Carrie, Nicholas Gartner, Zachary Nelson, Tatum Carrie, Christopher Gartner, Rhiannon Hamm, Jade Nelson, Emily Gartner, Justice Whitson, and Jeffery Whitson.
His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Cooper Claridge, Parker Small, Cooper Small, Niko Alcantara, Layne Claridge, Riggs Gartner, Elliot Small, Colson Gartner, and Sadie Hamm.
Born in Vincennes, IN on March 26, 1945, Terry spent his life doing things his own way. He was a 1963 graduate of Lincoln High School, a 1967 graduate of Vincennes University, a businessman, entrepreneur, veteran, golfer, boater, fisherman, devoted IU supporter, professional jokester, and occasional source of life advice. One of his favorite sayings was, “Work smarter, not harder.”
Many in the Vincennes area knew Terry through his businesses, The Old Post Sporting Goods, Personalizing Plus, and N & T Distributors. His entrepreneurial spirit, gift for conversation, and ability to connect with people helped him build not only successful businesses, but lifelong friendships as well.
Terry proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. He was deeply involved in his community through the Jaycees and the Elks and loved traveling the country attending national conventions, where he enjoyed collecting and trading pins and making friends wherever he went.
His commitment to helping others extended far beyond business and civic organizations. Terry served as Chairman of the Board for KCARC and was instrumental in helping establish Special Olympics opportunities in this area. He believed everyone deserved the chance to participate, compete, and belong, and his impact on countless individuals and families will continue to be felt for generations.
One of the greatest blessings of Terry’s life began at Kentucky Lake, where he met the love of his life, Nancy. Together they built a beautiful life and shared countless memories. Their place on Lake Barkley became a gathering place for family, friends, fishing stories, boat rides, laughter and weekends that created memories to last a lifetime.
Anyone who knew Terry knew he could be stubborn, ornery, and a world-class teaser. He never missed an opportunity for a joke, a story, or a little harmless mischief. Beneath that tough exterior, however, was a giant teddy bear who loved his family fiercely.
As the father of three daughters, Terry spent a lifetime surrounded by women and often joked that simply putting up with them should earn him some sort of award. Yet there was never any doubt how proud he was of his girls.
But of all the titles he held throughout his life, his favorite was Papaw.
His 11 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren brought him endless joy, and he would have done absolutely anything for them. In fact, his family often says that if one of them had called needing help burying a body, Terry probably would have shown up with a shovel and a plan before asking any questions.
Terry leaves behind a family who adored him, countless friends, and enough stories to keep everyone laughing for generations.
Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing that somewhere Terry is casting a line, cheering on IU, keeping score on the golf course, and reminding everyone to work smarter, not harder.
Of all the roles Terry played throughout his life, Papaw was the one he loved most.
A celebration of Terry’s life will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Pride of the Green c/o Lincoln Band Boosters, PO Box 591, Vincennes, IN 47591.
Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home is privileged and honored to be entrusted with the care of Terry and his family.
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