John D. Turner

John D. Turner, age 91, of Merrill, passed away Sunday, July 10, 2022, at Woodland Court Elder Services, Merrill, four days short of his 92nd birthday. John was born July 14, 1930, in Merrill, son of the late Alfred and Grace (Londerville) Turner. He graduated from Merrill High School in 1948. While in high school, John played baseball. He was also involved in boxing and was awarded the golden gloves. John served his country in the United States Army and was stationed in Korea. John married Lorraine Hase on May 7, 1955, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Merrill. She survives. John was employed at the former Ward Paper Mill, Merrill, and while still employed at the paper mill, he began working at the United States Postal Service. After more than 22 years, he retired from the U.S.P.S. People remember John as the smiling face behind the window at the post office. John and Lorraine enjoyed camping at Fox Fire Campground in Woodruff for 20 years. They also wintered in Florida for 22 years. John was a member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Merrill, where he volunteered often. John was a member of the Knights of Columbus, and he was a lifetime member of V.F.W. Post 1638, Merrill. John loved the Milwaukee Brewers and enjoyed watching their games. He also enjoyed snowmobiling, hunting, and fishing. John also volunteered at Bell Tower Residence cutting grass. Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Lorraine Turner of Merrill; his children, Jill (Jim) Pike of Three Lakes, Denise Latzig of Merrill, and Tom (Jodi) Turner of Merrill; seven grandchildren, Kristen (Josh) Cooan of Roberts, WI, Leah Turner of Wauwatosa, Josh ‘JJ’ Pike of Three Lakes, Jennifer (TJ) Aures of Ringle, Charlotte Pike (Ryan Iwamoto) of Waukesha, Garrett (Makayla) Hameau of Merrill, and Searra Turner of Merrill; seven great-grandchildren, Gracen, Turner, Aria, Veda June, Cayden, Max, and Kane; sister-in-law, Cleone Turner of St. Paul, MN; and several nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Grace Turner; son, Peter Turner; and siblings, Eugene Turner, David Turner, Alfred Turner, and Sylvia (Floyd) Lemon. The Funeral Mass will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, July 18, 2022, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Merrill. Father Mike Hayden will preside. The family will receive friends from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 18, 2022, at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill. The family wishes to thank Woodland Court Elder Services, Merrill, and Bernie from Palliative Care for the care and kindness they have shown John and his family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the charity of your choice.