John P Turner Jr.

JOHN P. TURNER, JR. JACK

Jack was born on January 12, 1943 to John and Marjorie Turner in Kansas City, Missouri.

He and his younger sister, Sarah started school in Kansas City and both graduated from high school in Liberty, Missouri. Jack graduated from Carlton College in Northfield Minnesota and did graduate work at Indiana University where he earned his PhD. in English Literature.

In the early 70's he began teaching in the English Department at Humboldt State University, specializing in Shakespeare's writings. During his long tenure, he held several leadership positions, including Dean of the English Department. He also was awarded Fulbright Awards and taught in Bulgaria and Ukraine. His passion was introducing students to the genius of Shakespeare.

Jack loved fine music, particularly opera, and was proficient on both the cello and bassoon. A voracious reader of all types of literature, he often gifted books and recorded classical music to his friends and family.

He is survived by many friends, from elementary school through college and later life.

He was faithful in service at St. Innocent Orthodox Church in Eureka and considered the members as family.

He leaves his sister Sarah, brother-in-law John, nephews Tom and Mike, as well as great-nephew John and great-niece Eleanor. His was a life well lived.

The funeral service will take place at St. Innocent Orthodox Church, 939 F St, Eureka, on Thursday November 29, 2018 at 1 PM. A reception will follow at 2 PM, with burial at St. Patrick's Cemetery in Table Bluff at 3:30 PM.