Founding members of Abilene retire
On April 27, Clubhouse 2 was packed with 500 of Abilene’s closest friends to wish original band members Terry Otte and Rod Anderson a fond farewell as the two musicians begin their well-deserved retirement.
As Otte’s honeyed tenor voice crooned, “On the Road Again”, the dance floor filled with two-steppers while late-comers had their photo snapped next to a life-size cut-out of the singer in the lobby. Fans signed an 8-foot keepsake banner with best wishes and sweet memories for the country rock band’s founder.
At the band’s break, Otte was presented with a plaque by the Recreation Department in gratitude for his 22 years of service to LWSB. Otte promised some guest appearances down the road.
Otte was born on Jan. 20, 1942, in Omaha, Nebraska. At the age of 8, he relocated to California with his family. Despite early exposure to the accordion, he harbored a strong inclination towards guitar playing, inspired by the era’s musical icon, Elvis Presley. His foray into musical performance began during his junior high years, where he participated in his first band. Otte enlisted in the army at a young age, serving in Germany. He had a band in Heidelberg Germany with two GIs and three Germans. Following his military service, he continued his musical pursuits, playing in various bands, including one stationed at Fort MacArthur.
In 1997, Otte and his beloved wife, Rosie, found a new home in Leisure World, where his musical spirit thrived. He was an active member of Leisure World’s guitar club, where he met Rod Anderson. They created Abilene in 2002. For over two decades, Otte’s music has woven through the fabric of the LW community, bringing joy and harmony once a month to a packed Clubhouse 2.
Throughout his life, he has maintained a steadfast dedication to music, forging connections within the musical community and honing his craft as a guitarist. His journey exemplifies a lifelong commitment to artistic expression and creative collaboration.
—Cathy Otte
Terry Otte, founding member of Abilene, retired from the band on April 27.
April 27 was also the final Abilene show for founding member Rod Anderson.
