Major (Ret’d) Royal Canadian Dragoons
It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Terry Seeley who passed away peacefully at the age of 87, with his wife and sons by his side. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.
He leaves in mourning his beloved wife Rita Rose (nee Seuret) after 61 years of marriage, his loving sons, Christopher and Shawn, proud grandfather to Logan and Angelia. He was a caring brother of the late Carol Moore (John), Sharron Henderson (the late George) and Linda Wylie (Don). Born in Belleville Ontario, he was the son of the late Harold Ray Seeley and Marion Winnifred (Sharp), and stepson to the late Mildred May (Parker). Terry will be greatly missed by numerous extended family and military friends across the country and world.
During his military career, Major Seeley served in the Canadian Army and Canadian Forces in a variety of operational, training and staff positions in Canada and West Germany. Major appointments included Chief Instructor of the School of Armour, command of a tank squadron, and Second-in-Command of the Royal Canadian Dragoons (RCD) regiment. He was involved in the production of the first regimental history, “DRAGOON”, in 1983. Terry completed his military career at National Defence HQ in various Security Branch and planning related positions. He retired from the Canadian Forces with the rank of Major in 1991 with over 35 years of service.
Terry embarked on a second career with Transport Canada for five years and was employed in the Surface Group in Emergency planning, preparedness, and training positions. He completed a BA in political science with the University of Manitoba.
Terry participated in a variety of pursuits. He worked with the Royal Canadian Dragoons Association, the Conference of Defence Associations (CDA), the Conference of Defence Associations Institute (CDAI), the Canadian Battlefields Foundation, and related military organizations over many years.
Hobbies included historical model ship building. He enjoyed cross-country skiing, kayaking, hiking and boating at his much-loved cottage. This was his ‘happy place’ where he loved having his grandchildren and family friends enjoying the beautiful sunsets, and the sound of the loons. Terry will be remembered by his friends for his captivating wry humour, and for his unwavering love for his country and democracy.
The family would like to thank the nurses, doctors and staff at the Ottawa General Hospital, and the Champlain Palliative Home and Care Team, who treated him with care, dignity and respect to the very end.
The funeral service / celebration of life will be held this Spring at Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa. Please refer to the obituary for updates.
In memoriam, if desired, donations can be made to the Diabetes Association.
Digital Guestbook
Christopher & Nancy SPROULE
Albert and Elaine Turcotte
Rita , Christopher and Shaun, we would like extend our deepest sympathy and hugs.We are so sorry. Married 61 year, what a loving milestone. It sounds like Terry had a full life. I know you are going to miss him so much. I also know the wonderful family memories will comfort you during this very difficult time.
Koraley Karringten (Colleen)
I'm very sorry for your loss. I am thinking of the entire family during this difficult time and sending loving thoughts and hugs.
Susan Wylie
Aunt Rita, Chris, Shaun, I was deeply saddened to learn of Uncle Terry’s passing. I have many fond memories of Uncle Terry’s stories and wry humor at the cottage, and his love of a little glass of red. Thinking of you all at this difficult time and sending much love.
Susan
Linda Wylie
I miss my “big” brother immensely but am happy for all the time we had been able to spend together since we moved to the area of his cottage. We had a lot of good times! Rest in Peace Terry. ❤️
Joan Dolphin
My heart goes out to you, my old and good friend. Among many other things I still remember the joy at your wedding.
Much love
Tanya Antolich
My condolences to you all. He will be truly missed, especially at the cottage. Sending hugs your way❣️
Peter Atkinson
I first met Terry when I joined the Regiment in 1981. He was what I would describe as a gentleman Dragoon. He had time for young Lieutenants and he was always engaged in Regimental affairs. As I got more senior and got engaged with Regimental affairs, be they Guild or Association Terry was always there giving a helping hand and offering sage advice. He was a fixture at Regimental dinners and Black Hat affairs. He was respected by all. An officer and a gentlemen, he will be missed. Gone but never forgotten, RIP Dragoon. Bold and Swift.
Darla & Jack Sward
Our sincere condolences Rita, Chris, Shawn and family. He will be missed on Sandy Bay Road. May he rest in peace.
Wanda Foley
On behalf of my Mother ( Sharron Henderson) and my family and I , I send our condolences to the family.
Terry. You were a good friend and Colleague. RIP.