Terry Dee Vineyard

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Terry Dee Vineyard. He left us on June 25th, 2023, in Santa Barbara, California. Born on September 30, 1940, in Merced, California, Terry was the son of Otis and Pauline Vineyard. Growing up in Red Top alongside his three brothers, Terry attended school in Madera, California, and graduated from Merced High School.

In February 1958, Terry enlisted in the United States Army and successfully completed basic training at Fort Ord in May of the same year. He furthered his training as a Specialist in Fort Gordon, Georgia, where he gained recognition for his proficiency as a rifle marksman and a handgun specialist. Terry’s military journey then led him to Stuttgart, Germany, where he met a beautiful German woman, Gisela. They were married on August 7, 1959, and soon welcomed their first son, Michael, in May of 1960.

Following his discharge in 1962, Terry moved his family back to the United States, settling in Riverside, California. It was there that they welcomed their second son, Andy, on December 2nd, 1963. Terry followed in his brothers’ footsteps and pursued a career in the automotive industry, starting as a manager at Goodyear Tire before transitioning into automotive sales in the Riverside area.

Eventually, Terry accepted a position at Santa Barbara Datsun as a used car manager. Relocating to Goleta with his family, Terry devoted many years to the company until an opportunity presented itself. He decided to venture into buying and selling automobiles independently, until Cutter Motors (now Santa Barbara Auto Group) opened in Santa Barbara and offered him the role of manager for their used car sales team. After facing health challenges, Terry retired in 2001 but remained close to his family, residing in Goleta.

Terry had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and cherished activities such as hunting, fishing, and barbecuing steaks. He also enjoyed watching NASCAR and the NFL, but above all, he relished in the simple pleasure of an ice-cold Coors Light. Terry was a man of unwavering beliefs, a heart of gold, and an immense love for his family.

Leaving behind a legacy of love and strength, Terry is survived by his loving wife, Gisela, and his sons, Michael (Cheryl), Andrew. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Amber Lynn Vineyard, Chase Vineyard, Lindsay Chastain (Ryan), Dylan (Katie) Vineyard, and Ryann Vineyard, as well as numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Rest in peace, Dad.
We will forever hold you in our hearts.
With all our love,
Mom, Mike, and Andy.

Graveside Services Thursday July 6th, Goleta Cemetery