Gerald Turner

Gerald “Gary” Turner, 87, passed away July 19, 2024 in Springville surrounded by family. Born May 27, 1937 in Idaho Falls, Idaho to Richard and Margaret Sharp Turner. He grew up in Preston until his family moved to Bountiful, Utah. He remained an Idaho farm boy by spending each summer on his aunt and uncle’s farm. 

He had a love of travel which began when he joined the Army at 17, later moving to the Navy where he was a Seabee, the construction workers who build the infrastructure needed by the military. Construction would become his lifelong career. He was stationed in Adak Alaska, Okinawa Japan and San Diego California. While on leave he met LaDena Whipple and they wrote dozens of letters for the next 2 years. They were married October 7, 1961 in Ventura County California while he was stationed at Port Hueneme. They were later sealed in the Idaho Falls Idaho temple. They were the parents of 8 children. Dena passed away May 28, 2003. He married DeeAnn Peterson November 4, 2006 in the Boise Idaho temple.

Gary loved music and singing, gardening, horses, camping, telling stories and as mentioned traveling. He built his log home with his 3 sons. He was most known for his cooking - he made wonderful pies and many people learned how and enjoyed his dutch oven cooking. 

He took care of his immediate and extended family throughout his life. He loved spending time with family. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and served in many callings. His favorite callings were working with the young men and going to scout camp with his sons. He also enjoyed helping at girls camp with his daughters. He often shared his testimony when family was gathered for baby blessings.

He is survived by his wife DeeAnn and his children Wendy (Charles) Wood, Sharon Turner, Kimberly (Christopher) Hone, Scott (Misty) Turner, Kurt (Chris) Turner, Stacey (Megan) Turner, Aubrey (Jeramie) Hatch and Pamela (Josh) Davis and stepsons Stacey Smith and Anthony Smith. He is also survived by his brother Lynn Turner, 29 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren and other extended family. 

Funeral services will be held Monday, July 29th at 11 a.m. in the Lindon West Stake Center 250 W 600 S (1600 N, Orem) Lindon. Friends may call Sunday evening from 6-8 p.m. at Wheeler Mortuary 211 E 200 S Springville and at the church Monday prior to the funeral from 9:30 to 10:30. Interment will be in the Lehi City Cemetery. 

Seabees “Can Do!” 

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