Thomas Turkle

Thomas E. Turkle

Thomas Edward Turkle, 67, passed away on August 1, 2025, in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Born on April 14, 1958, in Wichita, Kansas, and raised in San Diego, California, Tom lived a life marked by creativity, craftsmanship, and a deep appreciation for the arts. From an early age, he demonstrated a natural talent for drawing and design skills that would later define both his personal passions and professional endeavors.

Tom moved from San Diego to Albuquerque, where his grandfather, Harland Ross, a pioneering sailplane pilot and designer lived. He later lived with his grandfather's friend, George Applebay, and felt privileged to work alongside George building the Zuni glider, the official state sailplane of New Mexico. These experiences both connected him to his family's legacy and allowed him to contribute to a field that combined precision engineering with graceful artistry. His work was a source of pride and fulfillment.

A gifted artist, Tom was known for his habit of doodling while listening or thinking, his pen often capturing whimsical sketches or intricate patterns that reflected his inner world. He often developed these into larger, more complex and masterful oil paintings. His creativity extended beyond paper and canvas, bringing the same thoughtful attention to detail to construction and remodeling projects. Whether shaping material or sketching ideas, Tom approached each task with care and imagination.

He also found joy in reading, music, and art, interests that enriched his life and inspired those around him. These passions were not just hobbies but integral parts of how he engaged with the world.

Tom struggled with addiction and sought help from AA and ACA, where he found acceptance, insight, and camaraderie. He stayed clean and sober for many decades. He is eternally grateful for your friendships; you know who you are.

He is lovingly remembered by his mother, Marie; and brother Charles, both of San Diego, California; sister-in-law, Patti; daughters, Rosemarie Bien, Wildamae Geiler, Eve Wisniewski, and Madison Steiger; sons, John Turkle (married to Elisabeth) and Aaron Turkle (married to Adriana); nieces, Katharine and Kirsten; and six grandchildren: Arwen, Arayla, Max, Nathan, Natalie, and Liam, who carry forward his legacy.

Tom was preceded in death by his grandparents, Harland and Betty Ross; father, James Turkle; and sister, Paula Leanne.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.