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KENNETH TURNER Obituary

KENNETH TURNER M.D. Kenneth E. Turner M.D., of Las Vegas, was born May 14, 1924, the fourth child and only son, to Viola and Boston Turnerin Tillamook, Ore. He passed away Tuesday, May 8, 2013. He grew up in Portland, Ore. After graduating from Gresham High School, he entered the U.S. Army in World II. He served as a glider medic with the 17th Airborne Division. On a mission several miles in German territory over the Rhine River, he was wounded over 12 times with mortar shrapnel. After the war, he graduated from Walla Walla College with a bachelor of science degree and from Loma Linda School of Medicine in 1952. After finishing his specialty training in obstetrics and gynecology, he moved to southern Nevada in 1959. He has delivered over 15,000 babies in his career. He married Marilyn Nixon in 1950. They were later divorced and he married Tonya. He was preceded in death by both wives. He served as chief of staff at Southern Nevada Memorial Hospital in 1963 and 1966. He was also chief of staff at Women's Hospital in 1982 and 1983. He was appointed vice president of the Nevada State Board of Medical Examiners from 1966 to 1971. He served on the Nevada Gaming Commission from 1968 to 1970. He was Southern Nevada Chairman of Citizens for Goldwater in the presidential campaign in 1964 and chairman of the nominating committee for Southern Nevada for Richard Nixon in 1968. He was preceded in death by his son, Kenneth Turner II. He is survived by sisters, Marjorie Quade and Mildred Wease of Portland; and by his children, Druscilla Turner Rees (Vernon) of Loma Linda, Calif., Deborah Ojeda (Alonso Ojeda M.D.) of Riverside, Calif., Candance Santacroce (David) of Loma Linda, Shanin Turner of Las Vegas, and Matthew Turner (Susan) of Woodmoor, Colo. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jackie Laws (Travis), Jay Ojeda (Noelle), Andrew Ojeda, Quinn Turner, Ian Turner and Dominic Turner, his golfing buddy; and best friend, Michelle Gray, who has worked with him for 22 years. The inurnment will be at 12:40 p.m. Friday, June 14, at Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 1900 Veterans Memorial Drive in Boulder City. A celebration of life for Kenneth will follow the services, location pending.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Las Vegas Review-Journal from May 9 to May 11, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for KENNETH TURNER

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Danielle Wise (Beard)

May 3, 2025

I share the memory of the birth of my second child, which he delivered. He must have been an exceptional doctor. As Jane Margaret Beard was a breech baby and was born without cesarean. I link him to the very happy event in my life.

Derica Glover

January 5, 2025

This was my doctor. Dr. Kenneth Turner was amazing!!!! Wish there were more like him. Dr. Turner delivered my mother, myself, and my children. May his soul rest just as peaceful as he was.

Jane Hagen - Beard

December 1, 2024

My weight was 8 pounds 8 ounces, the metric system got me confused. Sorry.

Jane Hagen - Beard

November 29, 2024

Hello, I was born on October 4th 1971 in Southern Nevada Memorial Hospital. I was a breech birth and a big baby (4 pounds, 4 ounces), but Dr Turner nevertheless delivered me safely, while my mother was put to sleep. When she woke up he looked serious and said that the delivery had not been easy. To this day she still wonders, how he did it without a caesarean. She is from Luxembourg (Europe) and thinks that I might just owe him my life. My condolences. Jane Hagen - Beard with her mother Danièle Wise - Stephano

Nelida Mendoza

May 19, 2021

he was a great doctor n a great listener, he will be missed ,Bless his heart rest in peace Dr.Turner to his family I'm sorry for your lost he will be in our for ever

Terry Williams

May 3, 2021

Dr.Turner was the best he deliver my son when I was only 16years old

Cheryl Lea

April 22, 2021

Dr Turner dilvered all 5 of my children. He was a good doctor and he was a good listener as well. My only son was born on New Years and we almost beat another doctor for the first child born in 1980. It´s hard to find a doctor after having the best. My condolences to the family.

dRU Turner

January 21, 2021

Thank you Connie W, we miss him too.
dRU Turner

Connie wiggin

January 19, 2021

I know it´s several years but Dr.Turner was not only my dr. But a friend as well he delivered my two children as well my grandchildren.. May he forever Rest in Peace

Derica Glover

July 31, 2017

One of the best Dr's. He was a blessing to me and my family. I often looked for him and I'm sad to hear that he has passed.

cecily miller

December 12, 2014

I will miss dr. turner terribly. he was my doctor for 12 yrs. in las vegas. may god grant him peace

martina gonzalez

May 19, 2014

Best doctor ever in history !!!!,,,Gonzalez family delivering 4generations.sending blessings to his family great missed by ours deeply... .especially my mother Esperanza that he was more than a doctor a friend in giving advice to our family,truly a great man at heart....deeply missed.......

Martina P Callum M.D.

May 14, 2014

Thank goodness for FB! I just got a reminder today on FB to wish him a Happy Birthday but when I went to his FB page I saw the post about his memorial..a year ago! I left Las Vegas in 2000 and had it not been for Dr. Turner I would have not been able to include Obstetrics in my practice of Family Medicine. He was my OB backup and he never failed me..available anytime of the day or night..He was a wonderful human being with a big heart! Ken may you continue to rest in peace..you earned it!

dru

May 8, 2014

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I6hTHCvreRQ

Tanya Paonessa

February 28, 2014

Of all doctors one could ask for, Dr. Turner was the most special and compassionate man, I'd ever known. He was my mother's doctor for me and my sister, and ultimately became my doctor. He delivered both of my kids. His grandson Dominic and my daughter Taylor are the same age, so we'd always share stories when I'd go in. And Dr. Turner would always ask about my mom. He'd say, "How's your mama?" He was truly a wonderful doctor who practiced with love and his heart as well as his skills. No doctor will ever be the same in my book. Dr. Turner, you will forever remain in my heart.

Miasing my pal!

Michelle Gray

January 8, 2014

Devi B

December 30, 2013

I was just made aware of Ken Turner's passing. I went to school with some of his children and have many fond memories of the whole family. I send my deepest condolances for all of you who are left behind. May your memories be your connection forever with Him. Love and Light, Devi

Helen DeAlba

December 13, 2013

Miss you!!!

Helen DeAlba

December 13, 2013

Dr Turner was a great doctor he delivered all five of my children I just went over there a couple days ago to check on him just to say hello and took my kids so he can see how big they have grown to be Turner you will be missed but in our hearts and memory u will always be remembered thank you for everything im so hurt by the news ....my condolences too the family of this great man

Jackie Littlefield

December 2, 2013

I know this is late in the year, I had no idea. Was looking him up for my 5th preg and found this. He delivered all 4 of my children. He was a great doctor. I never wanted to go to anyone else. I almost lost my first child and I believe because of him I didn't. My condolences to the family.

Dana W

August 27, 2013

What an awesome spirit he was. This man delivered me 1966, my sister 1965, my brother 1968, my niece 1982, my nephew 1984, my daughter 1987, my son, 1992, and my son 1999... God bless you Dr. Turner, and may you rest in peace forever and ever...

July 10, 2013

I was reviewing my birth certificate and decided to search for Dr. Turner online. I am saddened to find out that he recently passed away. Dr. Turner delivered me on January 6, 1971 in Sunrise Hospital. My condolences to the Turner Family.

Q & I...dah odda boyz

June 16, 2013

Matt & Al...da boyz

June 16, 2013

Shanin and Dominic

June 16, 2013

June 15, 2013

Oops! Try this linki instead for the Flag Presentation.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I6hTHCvreRQ

Reception for Dr Ken Turner

June 15, 2013

Please feel free to go to the link below to view the video of the Flag Presentation at the Memorial Service of Dr Ken Turner on Flag Day; June 14, 2013.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I6hTHCvreRQ

dru turner

June 15, 2013

The Family of Dr Ken Turner thank all of you who attended his Memorial Service and Reception.

On the gold course!

June 11, 2013

Candy Turner-Santacroce

June 11, 2013

Those who would like to join us after the service are welcome to come to the Boulder City Grill at 1501 Veterans Memorial Drive in Boulder City. Come share your memories and celebrate a wonderful man!

June 11, 2013

May 29, 2013

May 29, 2013

During WWII he was attached to the glider infantry in the European Theatre and served as a glider medic with the 17th Airborne Division. He was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds received in action in 1945. He was proud of his service.

May 27, 2013

Matt & Sue's Wedding

May 27, 2013

Ken Turner with granddaughter Jackie

May 23, 2013

Dr. Rita Marrero

May 23, 2013

Dr. Turner was a strong supporter of medical education, collaborative practice, and best practice. In our many years of collegial relationship, I learned so much to influence my practice for the better. I thank Dr. Turner from the bottom of my heart for having shared part of his life and professional practice to improve the lives of our patients for generations. I shall also miss being regaled with stories of his life's adventures, as I will the man himself. Ken, may you rest in peace.

Ken Turner and his golfing partner Dominic

May 23, 2013

Cathy Fridlund-Lundquist

May 23, 2013

I will always remember Uncle Ken's contagious smile and teasing ways. He was such a kind and gentle person and it made me happy just to be around him. RIP Uncle Ken, you will be greatly missed.

What me worry?

dru

May 20, 2013

Taylor, Hermann, Burden, Turner:
The Gun Slingers / Hall Fighters of the Loma Linda School of Medicine - Class of 1952

with Daughter Candy and son-in-law David

May 20, 2013

with Dominic and Arcelia

May 20, 2013

May 19, 2013

Ken Turner

May 19, 2013

Nannette Washington

May 17, 2013

Dr. Turner was my mom and one of my aunts Dr for years. He delivered me and two of my siblings. I even ended up being a patient of Dr. Turner with my mom trusting him he was the family doctor. Dr. Turner has delivered just about twenty babies in our family so I do want to say thank you from Jurett n Family

May 15, 2013

SORRY TO HEAR YOUR PASSING DR.TURNER YOU DELIVERED MY FIRST BORN 41 YEARS AGO RIP TERRY WILLIAMS LAS VEGAS NEVADA

Suze Innes

May 14, 2013

Dr. Turner was so sorry to hear of your passing..... you were my first Doctor and a great one at that. My thoughts and prayers are with your family...RIP Dr. Turner.........

Cerita Brown

May 14, 2013

Dr Turner, you will forever be a part of my family. Not only did you deliver my 2 babies but myself as well. Much love to you for being the kindest and sweetest physcian I've known. Condolences to your family. You will always be in my heart.

Desiree Frankos

May 13, 2013

Dr. Turner was a kind gentile man who I had the pleasure to work with. He always came as soon as he was called and told one of his patients was complete, even if we had to push for hours. It was a treat when he brought Dominic into the hospital. Just to many happy memories. Dr. Turner you will be missed.

Stephanie Collins

May 12, 2013

Dr. Turner, he was a sweet man and wonderful doctor. He delivered all three of my children the last one weighing only one pound fifteen oz. between him and the heart doctors, they saved her life and she is nine yrs old now. Thank you dr. Turner for taking care of me and my babies.

Teresa Cooper

May 12, 2013

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Stacie Rivers

May 12, 2013

Dr. Turner was a significant influence in my life. I first met him when I was a medical student and then had the privilege of knowing him during my training a resident and as a practicing physician in Las Vegas. He was truly one of the nicest people I have ever known. He was always so kind to his patients and was respectful of everyone. He was the first one willing to help when it was needed and was always there to lend a guiding hand. I have thought about him often through the years and have many times reflected his kind and gentle ways. He touched so many lives. Thank you Ken for all you did for so many. Rest in peace.

Eileen Sisk

May 12, 2013

I have so many good memories of Dr. Turner, having grown up with and being good friends with his children. May he rest in peace and prayers to his family.

circa 1966

May 11, 2013

Always Dapper

May 11, 2013

Pamela Orchow

May 11, 2013

Dr Turner was such a wonderful doctor and one of the kindest men I have known.So sad to hear of his passing.He will be remembered in the lives of all the babies he brought into this world.

Vernon Rees

May 11, 2013

I considered the times I got to spend with Dr Turner to be very special times. It was inspiring just to be with Him. His calm strength, and solidness, the comfort of knowing He was here. He was truly gentle man who worked to help people, and with a beautiful warm smile, and positive words of encouragement. He was very dedicated and disciplined as His long private practice attests. He went around with His phone in His hand because He was always on call. Rest now Good Doctor, Father rest for a little while. I miss You.

May 11, 2013

Goodbye. dru

NaTashae Potter

May 11, 2013

Dr. Turner was one of the sweetest doctors that I have ever had the pleasure of working with. No one could use the Simpson retractors like you! Rest in paradise.

Kelly Hughson

May 11, 2013

He will be missed. Truly a big part of obstetrical history in Las Vegas.

Lori Wagner

May 10, 2013

Dr. Ken Turner was a wonderful, trustworthy, smart, dedicated man. Great, and giving friend, and doctor. I met him in the early eighties in Las Vegas. His calm, dignified approach to everything was inspiring. He always gave 100%

Good bye

dru

May 10, 2013

Laurie Hunt-Walker

May 10, 2013

Dr Turner was my gynecolist for over
20yr he also delivered two of my children he was a very very outstanding man took good care of his patients. He will be missed

Robin Orchow Ficklin

May 10, 2013

I wish we could be there but we will be out of town. Dr. Turner was responsible for saving the life of my youngest son Brady Turner Ficklin. Ken not only delivered my children he delivered me. He will always hold a very special place in my heart.

Sandra Prandy-Gladden

May 10, 2013

Dr. Turner was a great man and doctor to my family and myself. He delivered me and was my doctor when I became an adult. He was always kind and would always help in any way possible to help his patients making them feel like family.All doctors should follow in his footsteps.
When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. ~Author Unknown

Susan Sisk Kuyrkendall

May 10, 2013

What wonderful memories our family has of Dr Kenneth Turner and his family!
The Sisk family, Susan and children, Julie Ann, Eileen, Joseph and Ralph

Mike Michelsen

May 10, 2013

I didn't know Dr. Turner, but I do know one of his daughters, Candy. Anyone who raised such a fine daughter has got to be outstanding.

Dona Gladden Merritt

May 10, 2013

Dr. Turner was a kind and gentle man who delivered me into this world. He was a friend to my mother and our entire family for as long as I can remember. May his family and friends find some comfort in all the good he brought to this world! He will be missed!

Alice Gladden

May 10, 2013

Dr. Turner was my gynecologist from 1965 until he retired. He delivered two of my children and several great grandchildren. He was a wonderful Doctor and an outstanding person. He will be greatly missed.

Allan Boruszak

May 10, 2013

Ken was not only a mentor but a colleague and a friend. We helped each other through many difficult surgeries. Rest in peace Ken

MARIETTA HENRY

May 9, 2013

Dr. Turner was my Gynecologist for many years. I always requested the first appointment of the day, so we could spend some quality time together discussing old times. My parents, Dr. and Mrs. Nicholas Lorusso (deceased), also enjoyed a close and warm relationship with him.

He will be deeply missed and always remembered with respect and admiration.

My deepest sympathy to Dr. Turner's family.

Jennifer Dyck

May 9, 2013

Words can't express how sad I am. There aren't a lot of people in this world as kind as he was. His gentle spirit will be missed.

Michelle Gray

May 9, 2013

He will forever be in our hearts and memories. We will be telling his stories for years to come.

Sharon Lawrence

May 9, 2013

RIP Dr Turner!

Jodi Dollinger

May 9, 2013

He was always such a kind soul. May warm memories help lift your hearts at this time of sorrow.

Heather Manley, RNC

May 9, 2013

What a sweet and gentle man in the crazy world of Obstetrical Medicine. You will be missed.

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