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Douglas Turner
Douglas Alan Turner, 68, of Free Soil, ran into the arms of Jesus on Friday, October 4, 2024 at home with his wife and children by his bedside. He looked at his wife Jill, and each of his children, told them he loved them and that they had to let him go. His last words were, “Thank you, Jesus!”
He was born in Grant, Michigan on December 10, 1955, to Harold and Doris (Ruwersma) Turner, the second of four children.
Doug met the love of his life, Jill Schrader, at their senior class picnic at the Ludington State Park in 1974. From that day on they were inseparable. They married on September 6, 1975, blessed with 50 years together, having just celebrated their 49th anniversary. Their adventures together included a mission trip to the Dominican Republic, trips to Canada, Mexico and multiple trips across the country. The last four years they enjoyed camping and hiking together.
Doug loved learning and was nicknamed “Dougopedia” for the multitude of knowledge he retained. If someone asked a question, the grandkids would respond, “Ask papa, he knows everything.”
He earned degrees in graphic arts, printing, and respiratory therapy. His many careers included working on printing presses, construction (he was in charge of building two Habitat for Humanity homes), respiratory therapy, worked on the Badger and onshore maintenance, delivered at Carter Lumber, and meal delivery for Meals on Wheels. He enjoyed every job he had and the people he worked for.
Doug was devoted to God, his family, and his country. He served in ministry at multiple churches alongside Jill. He served two years in the United States Army and four years in the National Guard. In the recent past he was a precinct delegate and helped with door-to-door campaigns.
His grandchildren filled his heart and life. He was always chasing them around. Reading stories to them with all of the sound effects was always entertaining. But most of all he loved taking them on hikes and fishing. He knew all the trees and mushrooms growing in the woods and had a fishing hole that guaranteed a fish each time for the grandkids.
Doug will forever live in the hearts and memories of his wife, Jill; his son, Aaron, with his children Devyn, Liam, and Emily; his son, Dustin, his wife Joy, their children Willow, Cole, Corbin, and Arlo; daughter, Lexi, her husband, Jesse Stamper, and their children Josi, Wes, Sam, and Ben. He will also be missed by his mother, Doris (Ruwersma) Turner; brother Steve and Linda Turner, sister Kathy and Dan Alvesteffer, and sister Susie Kellogg. His brother-in-law, Kim Schrader, was a great friend and support. He was also blessed with many nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are invited to join us for Doug’s Celebration of Life on Saturday, October 26 at 11 a.m., with a luncheon following. It is being held at The Tabernacle, 77 Hancock St. in Manistee.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington, www.OakGroveLudington.com.
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