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Christy Turner II Obituary

Turner II, Christy Gentry
Regents' Professor Emeritus Christy G. Turner II, 79, passed away at home on July 27, 2013, in Tempe, Arizona. He was born in Columbia, Missouri, on November 28, 1933, to Christy G. Turner, Sr. and Katherine Metz Turner. He graduated from Van Nuys High School, CA. He received his BA and MA from the University of Arizona (1957, 1958), and his PhD from the University of Wisconsin (1967). His early career began at the Museum of Northern Arizona and later he was appointed a Museum Fellow. He was a professor in the Department of Anthropology, Arizona State University for 40 years. His decades of ground breaking research in multiple fields are known to anthropologists, physical anthropologists, and archaeologists all over the world. Just recently, he saw the completion of his book "Animal Teeth and Human Tools." Christy was preceded in death by Jacqueline Adams Turner, his beloved wife of nearly 40 years. He is survived by their three daughters, Kali Holtschlag (Michael), Kimi Turner, and Korri Turner (John Rockhill); grandchildren Kalen, Mason, Amethyst, and Courtney; his sister Karen Snipes (Roger), nephews William and Duane, niece Kathy, and many cousins and family friends. He also leaves behind his dear wife, Olga V. Pavlova and her two daughters. Traditional Russian Panikhidas are being held in Novosibirsk. An Arizona memorial service is being planned for the Fall, please contact [email protected] for details. Final interment will be held privately in Benson, AZ. Christy's sharp wit, sense of humor, and high professional standards will be missed.

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Published by The Arizona Republic on Aug. 4, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
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Betsy Brandt

August 12, 2013

Christy was a great colleague. He was always willing to help other faculty and students with his time and expertiese. He was immensely knowledgeable. He will be missed.

Rhea Jacanin

August 7, 2013

I was Christy's research assistant for over 20 years and had just e-mailed him the day before he passed away. I will truly miss this wonderful friend. My heartfelt wishes go out to the family.

August 6, 2013

August 5, 2013

I had the pleasure of meeting Christy early in my career in Arizona. Through the decades we didn't see each other as often as I would have liked but when we did get together it was special. His quick wit has been noted. He was also capable of sharp criticism and sarcasm, usually deserved. But Christy was a genuinely warm human being, whose memory I will treasure.

Blair Schweiger

August 5, 2013

You will be missed Dr. Turner. Your map assignment has stayed with me. Thank you for teaching.

Sharon Urban

August 5, 2013

Only met Dr. Turner a couple of time but had heard several lectures in rapt attention. His contributions and knowledge will be greatly missed in Southwestern archaeology.

Joe Jensen

August 5, 2013

Our paths only crossed a couple times, but I have to say his sense of humor and his ability to stay positive even in challenging times left a lasting impression.

See you on the other side Dr. Turner

August 5, 2013

Some of the most fascinating and stimulating conversations I've had ever were with Christy and Jacqui when they used to spend summers at the Museum of Northern Arizona (in the 80s). I'll never forget the humor and sharp intelligence, the fun we had talking and talking. You'll be missed!

John Herron

August 5, 2013

I was saddened by the news of the passing of Christy. Many archaeologists will miss his scientific knowledge and his sense of humanity. Our sympathy to his family and friends.

Nancy Soleto

August 4, 2013

Deepest condolences to family, Olga, Karen, Kali, Kimi, Korri, et al. From a cousin who knew him fondly as "Sonny Bob." Nancy (Quisenberry) Soleto ...

Kathy Ress

August 4, 2013

Uncle Christy, You will me greatly missed. Your humor, wit, challenging viewpoints, and general silliness will be remembered. I know you are with Aunt Jackie now, both hauling bricks in heaven gifted by Grandpa and Grandma T. Love forever, Your niece, Kathy

Annalisa Alvrus

August 4, 2013

RIP Dr. Turner.

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