Franky 'Gene' Turner, 74
Gene passed away in his home in Coeur d' Alene on Oct. 17, 2011, in the arms of his loving wife. He was born Sept. 26, 1937, to Fred and Mary Turner in Little Falls, W.Va.
The oldest of eight children, Gene was preceded in death by his sisters, Janie Wohlers, Betty Charia and brother David Turner.
Gene is survived by his wife of 54 years, Betty; three children, Kathy Turner, Barb (Earl) Sasaki and James (Jill) Turner as well as five grandchildren Brandon Lawrence, Sarah Gibbon, Neil Reed, Mary Morse and Sydney Turner. He is also survived by his brothers, Dennis Turner and Jan Turner; and sisters Carolyn Shammel and Mary Carol Burdette.
Gene provided for his family for more than 38 years by working on the railroad. He began work for the Great Northern Railway at age 16 and worked his way up from a "Gandy dancer" to Assistant Superintendent of the Yellowstone Division of the Burlington Northern Railway. He retired in 1992 at which time he was able to pursue his many other interests.
Gene loved outdoor activities including hunting, fishing, gathering firewood and camping with his many friends. In later years he took up winemaking as a hobby because he took great joy in giving it as gifts.
He was a loving husband, father and caring friend. He was always quick to help out a friend and neighbor in need. His generous spirit will be missed by many.
One of the things Gene enjoyed most was reading the Bible and sharing what he gleaned with others. As a baptized, dedicated servant of Jehovah God for the past 50 years, Gene's memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22, 2011, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 3825 N. Fruitland Lane, which is off Bosanko behind Fred Meyer.
The family of Gene Turner would like to express our deepest appreciation to the Hospice of North Idaho staff for all of the help and support that they extended during the past months. They will be forever in our hearts. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of North Idaho, 9493 N. Government Way, Hayden, ID 83835.
The family would also appreciate it if you would sign his guest registry at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.