Gerald R. Turner

Turner, Gerald R. Attorney Gerald "Jerry" Turner passed away in Mequon, Wisconsin at the age of 78. Growing up on what he called the "rough-and-tumble streets" of the north side of Chicago near Wrigley Field, Jerry quickly honed his fighting skills. Finding a passion for boxing early on, Jerry would go on to train under the great Tony Zale. His boxing travels led him to San Antonio, where after two years, he had all but decided to go pro. Learning of UW-Madison's boxing program through a friend, Jerry applied and received a boxing scholarship. During the team's 1960 championship run, Jerry earned his individual NCAA Championship after a deciding split-decision victory, but watched in horror as his friend and teammate, Charlie Mohr, entered the dressing room and collapsed. Soon thereafter, Mohr passed away and the boxing program ended. In turn, Jerry fought to retain his scholarship, and completed his time at UW-Madison with a master's degree in social work. He went on to become a probation officer in Milwaukee, working with at-risk youth, diverting them to boxing gyms to build character and confidence. His educational and boxing endeavors did not end there. Jerry realized that to have a powerful voice in the lives of the children he served he needed to go to law school. While attending Marquette University Law School, he also fulfilled his professional boxing dream, winning all six of his matches. After graduating in 1969, most of his fights took place in the courtroom. As a litigator, Jerry represented thousands of clients, including the indigent and underserved in pro bono cases. Jerry continued fighting until he lost his final match on May 10, 2018. He is survived by his six children and 12 grandchildren. A special thanks to Dr. Christopher Budny for the excellent care provided to Jerry throughout the years. A private gathering was held by the family, and a celebration of Jerry's life will be planned in the future.