Theodore "Ted" Ibarra
April 28, 1952 ~ September 13, 2026
Theodore “Ted” Ibarra, 74, was a self-proclaimed man of many vices. While he definitely appreciated good cigars and expensive liquor, in truth he just had a relentless amountĀ of energy and an enduring fascination with all things fast and wild. Along with various other hobbies and interests, Ted loved camping, hunting, fishing, dirt biking, jet skiing, and building the biggest bonfires ever seen in Greenwood County.
He had many adventures throughout his life, mostly fueled by curiosity, adrenaline, and undiagnosed ADHD. Unsurprisingly, he really had a thing for fast cars. This eventually led to a 32-year career with State Farm Auto Claims, where he advanced from Estimator to Property Claim Trainer. He never lost his need to move and be active, either. Ted started TaeKwonDo at 55, going on to become an instructor, an active member of KABBA, and a Master 5th-degree black belt.
What really defined Ted, though, were the connections he made with people on a personal level, his lifelong friendships, and his love of family. Ted married his high school sweetheart, his better half, and the love of his life, Tami Clements, on September 28th, 1974. Ted and Tami met at The Cage in El Dorado (IYKYK) and were together 58 years. They had one daughter, Shannan, and were later blessed with three granddaughters, Lily, Kate, and Alice. Ted was endlessly proud of all of his girls, and even his son-in-law, Adam.
Ted joins his mother, Elizabeth, his father, Luis, and his brother, Lou. He leaves Tami, Shannan, Adam, Lily, Kate, and Alice, along with his sister, Betty, his brothers Paul, Pat, and Mike, and their families.
We miss him, and likely always will, but have lifetimes of memories and love to hold onto until we meet again.
Salud!
A private family graveside gathering will be held in the coming weeks, followed by a celebration of Tedās life.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests making a contribution to a cause close to your heart.
Services in care of Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.
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Tami, sending you prayers and hugs! Ted was quite a man! Glad I got to witness a couple of those big fires! Take care dear friend.
Ted taught me so much among others when I started with State Farm. He also showed me many bars in Wichita and Tami was good humored about it. Even later in my career I continued to call on him for advise. He was always there as a co worker and a friend. I only wish I had kept in better contact. God Bless you Ted. Many prayers for Tami and family.
Sending you a big hug, Tami (and family). I enjoyed Ted at the Garfield staff parties and events. He was always so fun to be around.
Toni McGill Boehm
I have great memories of Ted from high school. Tami, Iām so sorry for your loss.
I honestly canāt remember when the TEDDO and I met, but it was along time ago. We shared so many interests and rarely talked about one thing at a time. Our conversations did however end up about cars. I have those conversations archived In a safe place and will open them often. Ted, I will miss those moments, those conversations, our laughter trying to get the last laugh with the biggest and most outlandish fabrication we could possibly imagine. My sorrows for your family and friends and prayers to all the people whose lives you touched in your short life. Now you can smell the roses and enjoy the taste of a glass of wine, my friend.