Obituary of Neil Eugene Turner

Neil Eugene Turner, 50, of Hoodsport, died Friday, March 21, 2014. He was born to James N. Turner and Margo Nailor Turner on August 12, 1963 in Port Angeles, Washington. Neil graduated from Port Angeles High School in 1981 and was a very adept wrestler that placed and went to the State Finals and placed 3rd in the 178 pound class. After HS., Neil went to Peninsula College for the Fisheries Program and then began his lengthy career with the WDFW. Neil married the love of his life Linda (formerly Antrim) Turner 26+ years ago and lived onsite at the hatcheries until they permanently put down roots in Hoodsport. Neil had a dynamic personality, boundless energy and spread his positivity and smile to whomever was lucky enough to be around him. He was an exceptional Man and with Linda by his side, they created a wonderful home, known to always have meticulously groomed gardens and landscape. Neil enjoyed working for WDFW (27+yrs) and spent many years mentoring, and coaching his crews with gusto to become not only highly skilled employees, but by teaching them life values. Neil had a multitude of interests including: riding his Harley, anything to do with hunting and gathering - fishing, hunting with bow & rifle, firewood gathering, camping with the boys & Linda to show them how to live off the land, fathering his sons and teaching them how to become admirable Men. As most of you know, Neil was also very competitive and enjoyed winning and then teasing his opponents. He was known to be able to beat a person at cribbage while carrying on a conversation with 3 or 4 other people. Some of you may not have not known, Neil was also a professional pyrotechnician who was instrumental in the annual fireworks display for almost 20 yrs, including the towns of Hoodsport, Union, Forks, and La Push and many more.... Neil was very involved in the Hoodsport community, including serving as a Volunteer Fighter and becoming a member of the Kiwanis' too. Neil is survived by his parents, Jim & Margo, wife, Linda and their sons Gregory with wife, Sara and Bradley Turner. Neil and Linda are expecting two grandchildren this summer. In addition, he is also survived by brothers Nicholas with wife Melissa Turner, brother Eric Turner, and sister, Julie Turner and many nieces and nephews. Neil was deeply loved by his immediate and extended family/friends and will be greatly missed by All. A Potluck Celebration of Life is planned on Sunday March 30,2014 at 2:00 p.m. at the Hoodsport Fire Station.