Terry Dale Croft

Terry Dale Croft, a proud veteran, respected professional engineer, and dedicated family man, passed away on December 10, 2025 at the age of 79 surrounded by his family. Born on July 23, 1946 in Shenandoah, Iowa, Terry was introduced to the Air Force at a young age as his father was a noncommissioned officer in the Air Force. Their travels were many and Terry ultimately graduated from The USAF High School in Ankara, Turkey in 1964.

He returned to the United States to attend Iowa State University, where he met Barb. They were married on July 30, 1967. Terry was a member of the Adelante Fraternity. He graduated from ISU with a degree in Engineering Operations on March 1, 1969 and received his Air Force commission through ROTC at that time. Barb graduated with him the same day.

Terry served his country in the Air Force for 5 years, embodying the values of dedication and commitment. During that time, he flew T-38s, C-123s and KC-135s, with a year of duty in Vietnam. He achieved the rank of Captain and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.

In 1975 he chose to leave the Air Force and work in the private sector to spend more time with his family. He worked for multiple engineering firms in the Kansas City area designing control panels for power plants.

Terry was a devoted husband and father. He and Barb raised two sons, nurturing them with love and instilling in them the values of hard work, integrity, and fellowship.

Terry’s passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be remembered not only for his military service and professional achievements, but also for his warmth, kindness, and the loving relationships he built throughout his life. As Terry lives on in spirit, his legacy remains in the lives he touched and the memories created with those he held dear.

He is survived by sons Tony Croft of Ames, Iowa, and Jerry Croft (wife Jennifer) of Kansas City, Missouri, and his tabby cat, Toby.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that any memorials be made to the Disabled American Veterans at DAV.org.

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