Robert Terreberry

Robert G. Terreberry, “Coach Popeye”, 92, of Rockford, IL, peacefully passed away in the early hours of Friday, June 26, 2015, at Morning Star Village, surrounded by his loving family.

Born April 14, 1923, in Chicago, IL, son of Hazel (Hawkins) and Edward L. Terreberry. He proudly served in World War II aboard the aircraft carrier, USS Enterprise, CV-6, the Most Decorated Ship of WWII, for 4 years where he was awarded the Bronze Star medal plus 18 Battle Stars. He married Bette Jane Bottolfsen of Superior, WI on April 13, 1947, in Chicago, IL. They made their homes in Wheeling and later in Schaumburg. He was involved in sports for many years, umpiring baseball at the High School and Little League level 6. He is best remembered as “Coach Popeye” to many players and their parents in the Schaumburg area SAA football program where he served as a coach. His players nicknamed him “Popeye” as they knew he was a sailor, and he loved his new name as much as he loved the kids and their parents. He was also active in the VFW, serving as a Commander of VFW Post 8080 in Hoffman Estates, and was a member of the VFW Post 5151 in Streamwood. After retiring from the Harper College Maintenance Dept, he and Bette enjoyed traveling and touring around the country. He enjoyed playing cards and pool with his friends at the Schaumburg Senior Center (CRC). At Morning Star Village in Rockford, where he and his wife have resided for the past 2 ½ years, he enjoyed participating in their many activities and was always in search of another pinochle player. Their many friends at MSV will miss his generosity and friendship.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Bette of Rockford; children, Judy (John) Mullen of Machesney Park, IL, Robert R. (Trude) Terreberry, PhD, of Angier, NC, Joan (Ken) Bober of West Dundee, IL; granddaughter, Elizabeth (Steven) Gore of Lake in the Hills, IL; and great granddaughters, Victoria and Violet Gore. He was predeceased by his parents, siblings and cherished daughter, Jill in 2008.

Cremation rites were accorded per his wishes and his burial at sea by the US Navy will take place at a later date where he will join his fallen shipmates. The family wishes to thank many people for their wonderful and loving care of our father especially the entire staff of Morning Star Village, Lisa, RN and Stephanie, CNA of Heartland Hospice. You are truly a blessing in our lives. A special thanks to the Harlem High School Veteran Documentary Project. An amazing student there, Tayato (Ty) Thew, Class of 2015, created a documentary of our father’s war experiences. Dad felt honored by this opportunity to share history with another generation.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Morning Star Village, Heartland Hospice, Harlem Veteran Documentary Project or the Honor Flight of Chicago. A celebration of his life has been scheduled Friday, July 24, 2015, from
3 p.m. until time of service at 7 p.m. at the Countryside Funeral Home, 1640 Greenmeadows Blvd, (at Barrington Rd.) Streamwood/Schaumburg, IL 60107. For more information, 630-289-8054 or www.countrysidefuneralhomes.com.