Terry Allen Spalinger, 67, passed away suddenly and peacefully at his home on January 14, 2023.
Terry was born to George and Edna Spalinger in Billings, Montana, on December 28, 1955. Raised on the south side of Billings, he grew up spending a significant amount of time with his older brother, George Jr. Terry was the first in his family to earn a high school diploma, graduating from Billings Senior in June 1974. He then continued his education at Montana State University in Bozeman, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Business Management with highest honors in June 1978.
Following college graduation, Terry moved to Great Falls for a job opportunity as a Credit Analyst with First Northwestern National Bank. There he met his future wife, Sheryl Sexe. They married August 4, 1979, at Our Saviors Lutheran Church. While living in Great Falls, he also worked for I.F.G. Leasing Company and Prudential Insurance. Terry was ecstatic to welcome their daughter, Katie, on March 17, 1984.
In June 1984, Terry and Sheryl relocated to build their life together in Helena. They completed their family there when they welcomed their son, Cory, on February 7, 1987. Terry worked several years for the State of Montana, obtaining his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designation while at the Board of Investments which he carried with him throughout his successful career. He worked for various banks and retired from Wells Fargo as Vice President, Senior Business Banker in January 2017.
Terry had much to be proud of. He built a beautiful mountain home for his family and thoroughly enjoyed maintaining the pristine landscape that drew many compliments from neighbors. Terry was known for being a perfectionist in all aspects of his life from work, home, vehicles, boat, and all the way down to his children’s school projects. He was an involved father who spent countless hours coaching and attending events or activities in support of his two children. To relax and unwind, many years were spent at the Gates of the Mountains enjoying the family boat (The Day Dreamer), beautiful scenery, picnics, and camping. Although a home body, he enjoyed traveling with his wife to places like Hawaii and taking various cruises. They were already looking forward to celebrating their 45th anniversary with an Alaskan Cruise. One of Terry’s greatest joys were his three grandchildren. Being a grandpa came natural to him, creating special relationships and memories with each of them. In particular, the bond he had with his only grandson was something to be admired. He also enjoyed spoiling his three granddogs (Dezie, Bruno, and Boone) with extra attention and treats.
Terry made such an impact on all the lives he touched. A wonderful husband, devoted father, and the best grandfather. He was a joy to be around, so caring and kind. He will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. A life well lived, and as he often said, “rich in love.”
Terry is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Sheryl Spalinger of Helena, daughter Katie (Curtis) Madsen of Helena, son Cory (McKenzie) Spalinger of Liberty Lake, Washington. Terry had three grandchildren: Declan (7), Ellee (5), and Rubee (3) Spalinger. He is also survived by his brother George Spalinger Jr. of Laurel, brother-in-law Doug (Sara) Sexe of Great Falls, brother-in-law Dennis (Dianne) Sexe of Great Falls, and several nieces and nephews.
In honor of Terry’s wishes, there will be no planned services at this time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association or organization of donor’s choice.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Rosanne says
Sheryl, Katie, Cory, and family,
My heart goes out to all of you and may you find the peace that passeth’understanding.
So many fond memories of our many play dates, Smith School, Sports, and the such. As a big sister, Katie, you too were involved and so fun to be around. Your entire family is gracious, loving, caring with excellent morals and values..Terry set the example, a gentle soul. What a wonderful man and role model, and Sheryl right beside him working together, what great parents.
I hold our memories tight, thank you all for that.. love and hugs. Savor your memories of family. How blessed to have Terry in your life. Sheryl, take care of you, it is a trickle down theory. I am so sorry. Rosanne Burnham
Bob Bugni says
Sorry to hear about Terry passing. I had the pleasure of working with Terry at the Board of Investments. We were both young and our kids were similar in age so we had lots to talk about. We were both in the CFA program which took a lot of time away from our families. He would of had a great career at the Board but decided to go back to the private sector at our loss. I can just picture Terry being a great grandfather. Lots of good memories!
Bob Pancich says
I was very surprised to read of Terry’s passing. I had the pleasure of hiring him for the then Montana Economic Development Board, later merged into the Board of Investments. We made a great team in those days. I was so proud of his passing the CFA exam. There many timed we would see our families boating at the Gates of the Mountains. Lots of good memories.
Dodie & Dennis Heffner says
Sheryl, Katie and Cory,
So sorry to hear of Terry’s passing! It was a pleasure to get to know your family in the ’80s, living across the street from you. We regret that we didn’t stay in closer contact once you moved out of the neighborhood! We have many memories of the children playing together. May you find comfort in your memories! May you find peace in God’s promise of everlasting life! Dodie & Dennis Heffner
Marilyn RapagnanieD l says
Dear Cory, Kenzie and family,
I’m so very sorry to hear about your dad.
I’m sorry also, that I didn’t ever get to meet him.
He sounded like a very good man.
Sincerely and with love. Auntie Marilyn
Tom and Charlotte Ellis says
We were so sorry to hear of Terry’s passing. I first met him in Great Falls when he worked at the then Northwestern National Bank and I managed the trust area. I hired him after much effort to come to Wells Fargo in Helena from a competitor and it was one of our best moves ever. Not only was Terry an all around great guy but he was maybe the best business banker we were lucky enough to recruit. He will be missed by many who knew him.
Jan Funston says
Sheryl
I’m sorry to hear of Terrys passing. I also worked with Terry at the Montana Economic Development Board and then the Board of investments. It was a pleasure to work with him and also getting to know you all those years ago.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jan