Maj. Charles Terance "Terry" Calkins

Major Charles Terrance "Terry" Calkins, 79, of North Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on February 25, 2026, at North Kansas City Hospital. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Alden-Harrington Funeral Home, 214 Oak Street, Bonner Springs, Kansas 66012. The visitation will be held at 11:00 a.m., funeral services at 12:00 p.m., with a graveside service following. A light reception will be provided following the services for all friends and family to gather and share stories.

Terry was born on February 19, 1947, in Caney, Kansas, to Don and Tealy Calkins. He graduated from Bonner Springs High School in 1965 and then followed in his father's footsteps and went on to pursue his passion for aviation. He attended Miami Flight School and completed additional flight training in Oklahoma, beginning a lifelong career in the skies.

Following flight school, Terry joined the United States Army Reserves. While stationed in Montana, his unit assisted with spotting forest fires. He later transferred to Olathe, Kansas, where he piloted the CH-47 Chinook helicopter. He proudly served his country and achieved the rank of Major.

Terry continued serving in the Army Reserves while simultaneously building his career as a commercial airline pilot. He flew for Frontier Airlines and Continental Airlines, balancing both his military commitment and civilian aviation career with dedication and skill. He retired from commercial aviation on February 19, 2007, his 60th birthday, after many years of faithful service in the air.

In retirement, Terry embraced the simple joys of life with his loving wife Sue. He enjoyed walks around the block with his dog, Spot, savoring a glass of red wine at his son's restaurant, the Canoe Club, attending Quiet Birdmen gatherings, and spending time outdoors as a "mountain lion hunter". Above all, he was a proud grandfather who cherished time with his family.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Michael "Mickey" Calkins; his niece, Kelsey Calkins; his parents, Don and Tealy Calkins; and his beloved dog, Spot. Terry is survived by his wife, Susan Calkins; his sons, Chris Calkins (Megan) and Nick Calkins (Leigh); their mother, Karen Calkins; his grandson, Winston Calkins; his sister, Debbie Thompson (Mike); and several nieces and nephews.

Memorial contributions may be made in Terry's name to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation.

Tunnel to Towers Foundation

Terry will be remembered for his quick wit, steady demeanor, and deep love for his family.