Michael Eugene Turner

Michael E. Turner, born April 29, 1942, passing October 12, 2025, a proud patriot, devoted family man, and distinguished United States Air Force veteran, passed away leaving behind a life story defined by service, honor, and love. Born to the late Milton Eugene Turner and Wanda (Robson) Turner, Michael grew up to embody the values of dedication and integrity that would guide him throughout his life.

Michael proudly served his country during the Vietnam War as a member of the United States Air Force. Through decades of faithful service, he rose to the highest rank an enlisted airman can achieve — Chief Master Sergeant. His military career took him across the globe, serving in distinguished assignments including Okinawa and Misawa, Japan; Crete, Greece; Omaha, Nebraska; San Angelo, Texas; and San Antonio, Texas. No matter where duty called, he represented his nation with pride, leadership, and unwavering commitment.

 Michael excelled at sports in high school at Huntsville High School and his elementary years were spent at East Liberty Elementary. He continued his playing throughout his military career. He also made the Air Force Basketball Team and traveled and played with them. He enjoyed softball, basketball, football, volleyball, bowling and darts. 

After his retirement he joined his father racing field trial dogs around the country. Winning many championships and awards! He and Linda lived their winters in Florida where Mike could fish to his hearts content and Linda could socialize with her friends and avoid the Ohio cold!

Michael shared a deep and enduring love with his late wife, Linda Lou (Buckenroth) Turner, of Bellefontaine, Ohio. Together, they raised two sons: the late Terry E. Turner and Scott D. Turner, to whom Michael passed on his sense of honor and devotion to family.

He is survived by his brother James Turner and daughters-in-law, Kathy Turner and Katrina Turner, who he welcomed into the family with warmth and affection. 

Michael was immensely proud of his grandchildren, each of whom brought him great joy: Tawny Hanf (Turner) and her husband Brad Hanf, Allison Turner and her wife Kim Turner, Morgan Sangalli (Turner) and her husband Matt Sangalli, Kailyn Turner and partner Parker Riley, and Tyler Turner. 

His legacy lives on through his beloved great-grandchildren: Margo, Woods, and Lucy Hanf, and Noah and Samuel Turner, and Nani Riley, who will grow up hearing stories of his courage, resilience, and gentle strength. 

To know Michael was to know a man of quiet pride, unwavering loyalty, and deep love for his family and country. He was a mentor, a protector, and a shining example of the values he held dear. His life was one of service—to the nation he defended and the family he cherished. 

Michael E. Turner will be remembered with profound respect and eternal love. May he rest in peace, reunited with those who went before him, and forever honored by those whose lives he touched.

Pastor Bryan Meadows will officiate a funeral service for Michael on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at the Eichholtz & Daring Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 321 N Main Street, Bellefontaine, Ohio 43311. Visitation will be held two hours prior from 10:00 to 12:00 at the funeral home. Burial will follow the service at Philadelphia Cemetery with military rites performed by the Logan County Veterans Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion Harold Kerr Post # 173, 120 Colton Ave, Bellefontaine, OH, 43311.

EICHHOLTZ & DARING FUNERAL HOME, & CREMATION CENTER, BELLEFONTAINE, is honored to serve the Turner family and encourages anyone to share a fond memory or message of condolence at www.eichholtzdaring.com

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