Terry E. Eilts

Terry E. Eilts, 75, of Hopedale, passed away Saturday, April 20, 2024 at his home.

He was born April 11, 1949 in Bloomington to August “Augie” H. and Virginia “Ginny” M. Monahan Eilts.  He married Wanda Morlan  May 30, 1969 at Minier Christian Church, and she survives after nearly 55 years of marriage.

Also surviving are three brothers, Larry Eilts of Montrose, CO, August “Ace” C. (Dawn) Eilts of Hopedale, and Edward (Amy) Eilts of Hopedale; one sister, Ginger (Robert) Glenn of Lakewood, CO; one sister-in-law, Denise (Steve) Graham of Portland, OR; 12 nieces and nephews; and seven great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters-in-law; and his mother and father-in-law.

Terry graduated from Hopedale High School and attended Illinois Central College and Heartland College.

He began and ended his career working for the family business, Eilts Electric.  He held positions both as an electrician and a store manager.  Throughout the years, he also worked as a fishing guide, a captain certified by the Coast Guard, manager in the hospitality industry, and as a general manager for Marinas.

Terry was a singer and performed as “Terry August”. He was a member of the Elks Club, and the Church of Christ and the Hopedale United Methodist Church.

He enjoyed bowling, golfing, fishing, water skiing, snow skiing, river rafting, and hunting. One of his fondest memories was living with his wife, Wanda, in Navajo Nation.

Cremation has been accorded.  A celebration of Terry’s Life will be at a later date.  There will be no visitation.  Burial of ashes will be in Gaines Cemetery at a later date.  Davis-Oswald Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Memorials may be made to Hopedale Rescue Squad.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Terry E. Eilts, please visit our floral store.