Terry John Heindel

Terry John Heindel passed peacefully and unexpectedly in his sleep on November 14, 2024. Known for his kindness, laughter, optimism, and commitment to others, Terry lived a life full of passion, purpose, and a deep sense of service. He is survived by his parents, Jerrold Joseph Heindel and Mary Ann Lewandowski Heindel; his sisters, Lorri Bass and Leah Rawson (Tom); his nephew, Kurtis Bass; and his niece, Cara Rawson. Terry will be deeply missed by family, friends, and colleagues too numerous to name.

Born in Kaukauna, Wisconsin, on June 2, 1963, Terry spent his formative years in Switzerland, where he learned French at a young age. His love of language became a lifelong gift, and as an anesthesiologist, he was proud to serve as a trusted translator for French-speaking patients throughout his career. It was just one of the many ways he found joy in helping others.

Terry graduated from Sharpstown High School in Houston, Texas, where he was a member of the marching band – an experience that encouraged his love of music, which he passed on to the entire family, especially the next generation. He later graduated from the University of Mississippi and the University of Mississippi Medical School Center in Jackson. 

For 20 years, Terry served as an anesthesiologist at St. Anthony Hospital in Denver, Colorado. His journey culminated in a distinguished career, where he earned his colleagues' and patients' respect and affection. He helped innumerable people live healthy and happy lives. His biggest triumph was the time he spent giving out of his heart to practice anesthesiology in rural Nepal, helping to provide crucial care to those who otherwise would have been unable to reach it. When he talked of this time, a light that burnt brightly and passionately appeared in his eyes. He was always the proudest of the ways he found to help others every day of his life.

As an avid skier, Terry made sure to be as close to the slopes as possible, eagerly sharing moments with friends on the mountain whenever he could. His enthusiasm for life was contagious, and his sense of adventure extended far beyond the hospital and the ski slopes. He felt his best spending time with friends and family. The times he cherished the most were spending time on the slopes of Vail, scuba diving in beautiful places, white water rafting with friends and family, or enjoying family vacations.

Terry’s humor was legendary, and he never missed an opportunity to make people laugh – even if it meant embarrassing himself (or others). He was deeply committed to brightening someone’s day in thoughtful, meaningful ways, from purchasing a sound system for the operating room for his fellow doctors to buying a Porsche for his father in gratitude for all he had done to playing an elf at Christmas to bring smiles to the children’s faces.

Terry had many health challenges over the past 25 years but focused on the positive and stayed grounded through meditation. This helped him maintain a zest for life, an upbeat attitude, and a desire to find happiness every day. He took every issue in his path in stride, continuing to find ways to put smiles on the faces of those around him. 

Terry’s legacy is one of kindness, compassion, and an unshakable dedication to his family, friends, and profession. His impact on those who knew him will be felt for years. While he may no longer be with us, his spirit – his joy, his laughter, and his love for life – will continue to inspire everyone whose life he touched.

A celebration of life will be held in Terry’s honor at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society.

The Heindel family is compassionately cared for by Gentry-Newell & Vaughan, of 503 College Street, Oxford, NC 27565.