Mr. Terry "Mike" Dozier's Obituary
Terry Michael “Mike” Dozier passed away while surrounded by family and friends on June 26th 2020, at the age of 68. Throughout his life he remained a devoted husband, loving father, consummate teacher and loyal friend.
Mike was born on October 4th 1951 in Pensacola Florida and was raised there by his grandparents, Carl and Elizabeth Abrams. At the age of 18, he joined the U.S. Army, for which he served 28 years. Twenty-four of those years he served in the Army Special Forces. He retired as a Chief Warrant Officer III in 1997, a decorated wartime veteran, having earned numerous accommodations, medals and awards celebrating his leadership skills, bravery, and talent. As a highly skilled and motivated soldier, he was Special Forces, Ranger and Pathfinder qualified. Additionally he was a Master Parachutist, Expert Infantryman and an excellent skier. He spoke English, German, French and Czech languages.
His commitment and dedication to excellence was demonstrated through a long career of challenging U.S. and overseas assignments including:
Ranger School Instructor
Detachment A in Berlin, Germany
Multiple operational positions in U.S. Army 10th Special Forces Group
U.S. Special Forces Operations Command Central
After retirement from the Army, he spent 15 years working for the U.S. government in personnel recovery and unconventional warfare. Regarded as an expert in these fields, he was highly esteemed and sought out by his colleagues. Throughout his life, he tirelessly demonstrated and vigilantly perpetuated an expectation of quiet professionalism, excellence and integrity.
In his spare time he nourished a deep passion for music, world travel, cooking, fly-fishing, and mountain life. He loved spending time with friends and family and effortlessly drew people together for laughs, stories, and a sense of community.
He is survived by his wife of 33 years Tonya Dozier, his daughters Shaila and Rhyann Dozier, his nephew Michael McLeod, and countless extended family members and friends who loved him dearly.
In honor of Mike, a military burial will be held at a date to be announced at Barrancas National Cemetery at Pensacola Naval Air Station. There will be a celebration of life at a time yet to be determined.
In lieu of flowers and in honor of Mike's dedication to service, the family requests that donations be made to [Wounded Warriors/disabled veterans fund/charity of your choice].
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