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Travis Turbyfill
Travis Turbyfill
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Travis Turbyfill Obituary
Known as "Turby" among crew members, Travis Turbyfill got a full-time position with the Hotshots when another member's girlfriend asked him to quit.
Turbyfill, 27, often worked with other Hotshots at Captain Crossfit, a warehouse filled with mats, obstacle courses, climbing walls and acrobatic rings near the firehouse. He would train in the morning and then return in the afternoon with his wife and kids.
Trainer Janine Pereira said she recently kidded Turbyfill for skipping workouts. His excuse was that he wanted to spend some quality time at Dairy Queen.
"He was telling me that it's because it was Blizzard week, and he was just going to eat a Blizzard every night," she said.
Tony Burris, another trainer, said he enjoyed watching Turby with his two daughters.
"Because he's this big, huge Marine, Hotshot guy, and he has two little girls, reddish, blonde curly hair, and they just loved their dad," he said.
Associated Press reporters Raquel Maria Dillon in Seal Beach, Calif., Sue Manning in Los Angeles; and Felicia Fonseca and Hannah Dreier in Prescott contributed to this story.
Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
76 Entries
Kathleen
November 30, 2013
Dear loved ones of Travis,
It has been nearly six months since this horrific tragedy. My prayer is for you to continue to endure in spite of the emotional pain that greets you each day. May you be comforted in knowing that our heavenly father knows how you feel and listens intently if you call on him and come and pray to him, he listens and will calm your heart. – Jeremiah 29:12
Annamarie Turbyfill
September 21, 2013
My prayers to the family
Cherie
August 31, 2013
Please accept my sincere condolences. Travis was a hero. To the children and his wife I pray for God to give the "peace that passes all understanding" and abiding comfort always. There are so many people lifting you up in prayer, you are not alone. And Jesus will abide with you.
How you can show support
A headstone from ireland quote
August 15, 2013
A mountain reflection the stars
August 11, 2013
Michelle Kendall & Family
August 10, 2013
The world is full of men, but what of men noble and true?
Can you say that you have known such a man?
These men are far too few.
But let me tell you a a story,
About a team of men
Who left behind a legacy
That will not be forgotten.
Highly trained,
They passed every test,
Chosen to fight wild fires,
They were called the best.
One scorching June day in 2013,
When a wildfire raged
The Hotshots were called upon
To battle the fiery blaze.
Armed with tools and heavy gear,
They set out in their prime,
No job too hard for these men,
No hill too tall to climb.
Command was set, plans were made
To tackle the fire's wrath
But winds shifted unexpectedly
And they were trapped in the fire's path.
19 men were caught that day,
The fire drew quickly near
Though they knew they were truly trapped,
Not a one showed fear.
Dig your shelters, men came the command,
Each one knew what this meant
They dug with haste and with one final look
They took to their tents.
Then let us look away,
For we cannot bear
What came to each one next,
Each man endured in those fiery moments,
His final Hotshot test.
And when the aid finally found the men,
The blackened landscape bore
The testimony of death everywhere,
And the men who were no more.
Oh children, your father was so brave,
A man who did his best
In work excelled, he fought to save,
withstanding every test.
Dear widow, may you never shed
another tear at some unhappy strife
For you've suffered enough dread
The day your husband lost his life.
Young sweetheart, your hopes and dreams
Lay in ashes, from the fire's wrath
May you find hope and dream once more
Though sorrow has changed your path.
Sad mother, your beautiful son,
your joy and your pride
Whom you succored with patient love,
has bravely lived and bravely died.
Two prayers I pray for you, the first,
Though all hope now seem dim
May you have a hope in God,
And place your trust in Him.
Second, May something good,
Something beautiful and strong
Emerge from this tragic loss
From something that went so wrong.
Then like a Phoenix from the ashes
May these men and their noble deeds
Live, for love is stronger than death,
In the lives of those who who stop here to read.
The voyage
August 9, 2013
Sandee Garza Schock
August 7, 2013
To the Family & Friends
of Mr. Turbyfill
Please accept my deepest
sympathy in the loss of
Your HERO. May He Rest In
Peace. May God comfort You
during this difficult time.
Sincerely
Nikki Aloisio
July 14, 2013
"Lifting the family up in prayer"
May God comfort the family and give them peace.
"The HotShots will forever be loved and remembered"
July 11, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you. If there is anything I can do to help when I arrive in January please let me know. Until then know you are in our hearts. Julie Fox Kulick - (Winneconne, WI)
The Navajos
July 10, 2013
The Navajo Nation is grieving with you for the loss of your loved one. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Jo Lansdale
July 10, 2013
I know Travis was a wonderful blessing to your family and he was a blessing to the community as well. He will be dearly missed. I can't begin to express how sorry I am for your loss. Colleen you and your family are in my heart, my thoughts and my prayers.
Laura Harter
July 10, 2013
I didn't know Travis personally but I know the man that he was. His grandmother, Mary, told me so much about him. I appreciated him for the love and caring that he gave her. He loved her very much and she loves him. I wish I could take her pain away. Travis, you will truly be missed.
Pennie & Tammy White
July 10, 2013
Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.
Sandra Jenkins
July 9, 2013
I am a Aunt to Travis. I knew him when he was just a boy. As things change in life. We were not in Travis's life a young man, but he was always thought of and will all be loved by his aunt Sandy.
Robert "Turby" Turbyfill
July 9, 2013
Travis was a descendant of Revolutionary War soldier John Turbyfill of Virginia and Travis's life honored his Patriot heritage.
My sincerest sympathy to Travis's family. He was a true hero.
Kevin and Tasha
July 8, 2013
Our deepest condolences to you the family and loved ones of this extraordinary young man. He has touched the hearts & minds of the world with his exemplary character,integrity, passion and dedication. He will not be forgotten. His life made a difference. Our thoughts and prayers are with you now and in the days to come. May the God of ALL Comfort - comfort you as only He can. "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed,for His compassions never fail. With great respect,
Cheri Arnold
July 8, 2013
I was devastated when I read that Travis was one of the brave men lost in this tragedy. I remember Travis well from Miller Valley School, where he was a student of mine around the age of 8. He was a sweet boy then, and it's heartbreaking, yet gratifying to read of what a fine man, husband and father he grew to be. My sincere condolences to all Travis' family and loved ones.
Eileen Andric
July 8, 2013
So very sorry for your loss. A true American hero.
Jo
July 7, 2013
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Kirsten & Ken Archer
July 5, 2013
Travis was a frequent flyer in our home throughout his childhood and adult life after my friendship with Colleen spawned a close bond of friendship between my Son Jeff and her Son Travis, lasting almost two and a half decades. Jeff and Travis were there for each other's weddings and for the births of their children. They officially became Brother's through Prescott Fire Dept. when Jeff joined that family in November 2012, nearly two years after Travis was hired on. Travis, I loved your surprise visits at Dinner time whether Jeff was here or not. You were so fun to feed. Remember the time you offered to test Ken's new electric fence out to help him know if it was working???????? Such bravery you had. I will miss your unfailing hugs,love and sweet nature!!!!! Colleen, I am so very proud of your grace and dignity during this tragedy, lifting all of US up. You are an amazing and beautiful woman. Stephanie, I was so happy when you and Travis married. You complimented each other so beautifully and lovingly. You and your beautiful daughter's Brooklyn and Brenlye and Colleen will always be our defining link to Travis. Thank you for that!!!!!
July 5, 2013
God Bless David, Collene and Betty.
We are thinking about ya'll here in Alabama
Charles and Betty Turbyfill
God Bless. Uncle Charles
Miki
July 4, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. I am praying for your family during this time of grief.
Cody Bennett
July 4, 2013
Dave and family I am SO sorry about the loss of your son. I lift you all up in prayer.
Debbie Gutierrez
July 4, 2013
I met Travis once when he was a very young boy when his Dad married Colleen. I cannot image the pain his entire family is feeling right now. My thought and prayers are with them.
Sharon Anderson
July 4, 2013
Turby's friend said, "Everyone's tore up." That is true, even if we didn't personally know him and his family. I am so saddened by this whole ordeal. Most of Prescott is. Please know you are being thought of and prayed for. I have a little bit of an idea of how you must feel because I lost my own son (45) in May to heart disease. Heart disease or fire....it still hurts!
George Hilbish
July 4, 2013
The Marines and Corpsmen of the Pierce County Detachment 504 Marine Corps League, Share in Your Loss. Rest in Peace, Marine. Semper Fi!
susan cowell
July 4, 2013
Our prayers to the family of this wonderful BRAVE young man. Cherish those special memories you have. Put your arms around those special children you shared with him and let them know how unselfish their Dad was. He along with his fellow firefighters put their lives on the line to save others and it is so greatly appreciated. Prayers to you all
July 3, 2013
our prayers are with your family
Marian Marsceill
July 3, 2013
So sorry to hear about your loss. Thoughts and prayers are sent your way. God bless.
Chelsea Russell
July 3, 2013
I am so sad and so sorry, my sincerest condolences to the Turbyfill family. RIP Brother;
Chelsea Russell, Toronto Fire Services
Always in our hearts!
July 3, 2013
Danny & Joyce Snide
July 3, 2013
Comfort the Bereaved
When earthbound days are done, and loved ones go beyond, Sometimes our Lord's promis for eternal life is hidden in grief and loneliness and strife, but, a sympathetic nod, a note that says, "I care", a gesture or a hand to hold will lift clouds of despair. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Romans 12:15. We are weeping with your family as you try to cope with this tragedy. Love Joyce, Peoria Az
Jenny Bruner
July 3, 2013
My deepest condolonces to the Turbyfill family. May God bless each of you and give you the comfort needed during this time. A true Hero!
Carolyn Hettich
July 3, 2013
My heartfelt condolences. I am so very sorry for your loss; so very grateful for your sacrifice.
Charlene Rathgeb
July 3, 2013
Sending you much love, and hope that you are granted strength in the coming days. Our sorrow is truly numbing, and our hearts are with you. Charlene and Mike Rathgeb, both with Toronto Fire Services, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
July 3, 2013
God Bless you young hero and to the family,,,,he will always be a hero in the eyes of all of us.
July 3, 2013
The thoughts and prayers of the nation are with you as you grieve the loss of your loved one. May you find some comfort in knowing that you are in the thoughts and prayers of so many at this sad time.
July 3, 2013
Coleen, Dave and Shari my prayers are with you each day. Travis is a hero!
Bobbie Jo
Rich Reay of WHFD
July 3, 2013
God bless the Turbyfill family and friends during this difficult time. Travis was truly a hero for what he believed and for what he did for a living. May God bless Travis!
Kathleen Newman
July 3, 2013
I remember Travis as a beautiful First Grade boy coming to school eager and smiling and laughing. He brought a lot of joy every day to me and to his friends at Miller Valley School. Our hearts are full and we send our love to his wife, girls, mom and dad. With prayers and love, Kathleen Newman
Monica Rios
July 2, 2013
We are definitely keeping your family in prayer..My mother is the nanny for Travis and Stephanie's little ones..We have a chain of churches lifting them up in prayer by name. We send all our love, care, concern, and prayers your way.
Katie Manns
July 2, 2013
Colleen-we haven't talked in a long time now; it's probably been 6-7 years. I never got to meet Travis but I remember
the chats we had and all the good, pain-in-the-butt teenager stuff we used to talk about. I am so sorry about Travis. I'm
thinking of you and your family as well as all the families who've lost their loved ones.
Tucson sends our prayers and love. xxxxxxxx
Robyn
July 2, 2013
May peace engulf you all in this tragic time and through the tears, may you see that Travis is safely tucked away in you hearts.
Kris Foster
July 2, 2013
Travis will live on in my heart and in the hearts of many. My deepest sympathy to Stephanie and his darling little girls, to Colleen and Dave and all who will miss him so much. I'm glad he fulfilled his dream to become a firefighter, but so very sorry that this world has lost him. From his 2nd grade teacher at Miller Valley School
EDGAR & NELL BROWN
July 2, 2013
HERE IS CANDLE THAT SHINES AND IT WILL ALSO SHINE FOREVER IN YOUR FAMILIES HEART. OUR PRAYERS GO OUT TO TRAVIS FAMILY AND GOD BLESS AND KEEP THEM.
Maria Piller
July 2, 2013
As a mother who lost a Son this past February at the age of 30, my heart and prayers go out to all of Travis' family. I grieve with you, I weep because although I didn't know Travis personally, I know he was a wonderful family man and has touched the lives of many who loved him, just as my Son was. God bless you.
July 2, 2013
Our hearts go out to your family. Colleen, Mark is out of town but he wants you to know he is sending prayers your way. Your son will always be a hero...in God's eyes and in ours
Stephanie Fricke
Heather Gibson
July 2, 2013
I have never met Travis but we are related through our great aunt, Juanita. My family is keeping you and all of Prescott in our thoughts.
Jesse-Lee Yarbrough
July 2, 2013
To Dave and the rest of the Turbyfill family,
My extreme condolences to you. I thank God for gifting me with Travis as a friend. My life would not be the same without him. My prayers are with his soul as well as with you in these hard times. May God's grace be with your family.
Alexandria Napier
July 2, 2013
So very sorry for your loss. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. Travis was a hero, and will never be forgotten.
Carol Durkin
July 2, 2013
God Bless the Turbyfill family.
All of Arizona grieves with you.
With Deep Sympathy --
Michelle M
July 2, 2013
My entire family are praying for all of you, infact, I believe the entire country is thinking of you & sending prayers.
Monica Martin
July 2, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts. No words can help at this time but please remember we share in your loss. My husband, my oldest daughter, and myself are firefighters.
Jody K
July 2, 2013
Stephanie, I am so very sorry that your family is going through this great loss with the passing of Travis "Turby". Please know that your daughters, yourself, family and Travis's friends will be in my thoughts and prayers. Prescott will never forget!
Steve and Keely Callaway
July 2, 2013
Deepest condolences to your family & friends for the loss of your dear one; a true hero. God be with you in comfort and love as you grieve the loss of this great man. Be assured he gave his life in great honor. There is no way to thank him for his sacrifice; so in the memory of his dear passed soul I thank you, his loving family and friends. You are now his legacy. My heart is broken with you. So, so sorry for you loss.
July 2, 2013
God's blessings.
Kathy & Brian Kent
Blenheim Ontario Canada
Nancy & Norm Sandoz
July 2, 2013
As Jeffery said in his tribute, Travis was a most selfless young man, giving of himself in so many ways for his country and fellowman. Our prayer and thoughts go out to his family and we think especially of his wife, precious children and mom. God will give you strength and comfort at this very difficult time.
The O'Coys
July 2, 2013
To Travis parents. We are so very deeply sorry for your loss. We can not even begin to know what you are feeling. Our son is also a Fire Fighter (USFS)and this would be are worst nightmare. But, I try to take comfort in two things one he loves what he does and is living his dream. Two that he is a Godly man now and if the lord calls him home it won't be without cause. My entire family will pray for your pain and loss. Travis is there he's there watching over you still loving you. He and his crew will never be forgotten. Not now not ever! We send our love and hugs to all of you.
David & Kathryn Luithle
July 2, 2013
May you find strength in God in this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May your little girls take comfort one day in knowing their father was a true hero.
Tony S.
July 2, 2013
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of these fine young men that paid the ultimate price. My prayers are with you! SEMPER FI my brother!
July 2, 2013
May God give you comfort, strength and peace to endure this tragedy. My heart breaks for all of you.
Carol Underwood, Burlington, NC
Tamara Carver
July 2, 2013
My heart is broken with this loss. My deepest Sympathy to all that knew and loved Travis.
Laura Harter
July 2, 2013
I didn't know Travis personally, but his grandma told me so much about him. She was so proud of him and he was everything to her. I appreciated Travis for all he did for her. I know he was a very fine man. My heart breaks for his family. You will be in my prayers
Charlotte
July 2, 2013
My heart breaks for Travis Turbyfill's family. I pray that God comforts them with an everlasting peace and love.
Scott Chamberland
July 2, 2013
Please accept my Deepest Sympathies
Lita
July 2, 2013
My heart is with u all. I have a son his name is Travis also an tomorrow he will be 27 yrs. This day may you all be blessed by the devotion an love theses fire men shared, as they showed such bravery.
Marty Boles
July 2, 2013
God be with you at this most difficult time! Thank you for your selflessness and your sacrifice. You will be missed!
robert
July 2, 2013
my heart is broken. god bless him, and your family.
Maria Brown
July 2, 2013
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
July 2, 2013
Thank you Mr. Fireman, Jan,Tempe Az
Amy Reuter
July 2, 2013
I graduated high school with Travis and he was always good for a laugh and kind words. His bravery and hard work will be truly honored. You beloved family and children will always be in my prayers for strength.
Ambe Lamb
July 1, 2013
I went to school with him. He was a good friend and kind to all who he came in contact with. He will be greatly missed.
Leslie Weger
July 1, 2013
I didn't know Travis but had talked to him on the phone about Arizona Trappers Association a couple times. I am so very sorry for your loss. May he rest in peace. My prayers go to all of his family. ;(
Dawn Stacey
July 1, 2013
Continue your watch from above :'(
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