Kelly Dean

Turner

Kelly Dean Turner was born March 5th, 1962 at Ball Memorial Hospital to his late parents Gilbert and Marilyn Turner. He was unapologetically unique, mischievous, and full of adventure as a boy; a personality trait that followed him throughout his life. Being the middle child between Kevin (Kyle and Kristie) and Kris (Kay) Turner gave ample opportunities to seek out trouble with countless hours stomping through the woods and getting sunburns at the Splash Club of Richmond, Indiana.

Kelly received his diploma from Ball State University with honors after only one semester, majoring in a good time. Armed with all the knowledge a young man could possess from such strenuous studies, he left for Texas to put his degree to work for him. After a short stint in the construction business, he entered into the Aluminum Industry and worked his way into the sales department of Western Extrusions. It was there Kelly began traveling and making life-long friends along the way, many of whom kept in regular contact.

Kelly had an infectious personality; a story ready for every occasion, a snappy comeback that would stop you in your tracks, and a sarcastic wit only matched by the never-ending supply of dad jokes. He was passionate about many interests: classic cars, brewiana, vintage (literally) anything, Indy 500, classic rock, hunting, nature, sports, and military history. Some would venture to say his commitment to such interests was unusually strong; he would say he just liked "all things cool."

Between cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and countless friends, the list of those whom Kelly loved and admired would be far too extensive to include. Please know you were all very special to him. You know who you are.

He met his person, Karen Wilson Turner, and let her know on their second date his intentions to marry, setting the date for less than a year later, 08/08/08 at 8 pm with 8 guests. He stepped into the role of dad effortlessly to Morgan (Jake and Hera Lynd), lovingly coined as "his boy." Two more children would complete the family. He was the proud daddy of Quentin (nicknamed the Rooster) and Evelyn (his little-one-goo). His family was not simply his pride, they were his world. His camera was never far away to capture pictures and videos of simple, heart warming moments; pouring over them again and again. He was committed to teaching his children an unconditional love for your spouse by encouraging individuality and supporting their aspirations visibly and tangibly.

While the journey was long and difficult, Kelly's passing on November 6th, 2026 was peaceful at home with his family in his heart and by his side. His absence leaves a crater in all who loved him. Services are as idiosyncratic as the man. A home vigil has been underway with family and friends, and will conclude per the family's discretion. Kelly and Karen's ashes will be joined with the soil nourishing two saplings-an oak and a tulip tree-representing strength and beauty, a living testament to their lives together.

Many, many thanks to Dr. Benga and his staff at UC Oncology as well as Reid Hospice. While the boxing gloves never came off, even the strongest of warriors needs to rest.

"No longer forward nor behind

I look in hope or fear;

But, grateful, take the good I find,

The best of now and here."

-John Greenleaf Whittier