George Turner grew up in Torrance, California, where he attended Narbonne High School. There, he and his buddies shared a passion for cars and founded the Sleepers Car Club in Los Angeles.

In 1959, George joined the U.S. Navy — a time he was immensely proud of. He made lifelong friends during his service, staying in touch with many throughout his life. When his service ended, he returned home with a lifetime of stories and a deep sense of pride.

After returning home, George married Nancy DeRosier (later divorced), and together they had two children, Jeff and Kim. He began his career at Boeing Aircraft in Los Angeles as a parts expediter, eventually transferring to Washington, where he met Barbara Henderson.

George later returned to Los Angeles, worked for Harvey Aluminum, and married Barbara. After returning to Oregon, they welcomed two more children, Heidi and Scott. George began working for Zirtech, where he served as a Level III Inspector and Second Shift Plant Manager.

When Heidi was just 2½ years old, her kidney failed. Without hesitation, George donated one of his own. That act of love began a 22-year journey filled with medical appointments, surgeries, and hospital stays — but through it all, George and Barbara remained strong. During this time, George managed to balance work at Zirtech, classes at LBCC to strengthen his business skills, Heidi's medical care, and a busy household of four children.

Zirtech was later purchased by Cabot Industries, moving the family to Ruston, Louisiana. In 1982, they returned to Lebanon, Oregon, where George worked for Precision Castparts in Portland as a plant manager.

Outside of work, George loved being surrounded by family and friends. Whether playing pool, camping, boating, or tending to his animals in the field, he lived life fully. He had a lifelong love of horses and rode many trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail in Oregon with his son Jeff.

George was known for his humor and ingenuity — even trying his hand at the worm business! He'd collect manure from dairy farms to feed his worms, manure splashing back and forth and up his back window, often with Jeff along for the ride. When the worm market bottomed out, he dumped the boxes and enjoyed the best garden ever.

George was a family man and he left his mark on each and everyone of his children.  He was a devoted father who instilled in his children the values of hard work, honesty, loyalty, and respect.

In 1986, tragedy struck when Barbara passed away suddenly from a heart attack. George's world changed forever that day. All alone, with two teenagers and a demanding job an hour and a half away, he resigned to care for Heidi and Scott, taking on all of Heidi's medical needs himself.

It was during this time, after a few invitations, Connie finally joined him on a trail ride that marked the beginning of a life they built together for 37 years. They married in December 1987, and George gained a son, Matthew. Their bond was beautiful and unbreakable; George was Matt's father in every way.

Together, George and Connie supported Heidi through her many medical challenges. Sadly, in 1995, Heidi passed away unexpectedly after a minor procedure, a heartbreaking and devastating loss for the entire family.

Through every challenge, George and Connie stood side by side, if not in person than by phone.

George eventually worked for Salem Ford Tractor Company, starting a small tractor business doing tilling and mowing with Grandpa Loughmiller. Their relationship was special — George gave Grandpa Loughmiller purpose and companionship.

He later drove trucks for JB Sod and Interstate Distributors, loving the open road. Eventually, he joined Cooley Farms to stay local. In 1995, George and Connie purchased their first truck and began driving under their own authority before leasing to RAM Trucking. Over time, George expanded to nine trucks, treating his drivers and the RAM team like family. He held deep appreciation for Dale Lattimore, the owner of RAM, and remained with the company for 27 years. George had hoped to drive until age 85, but health challenges — kidney and heart complications — eventually led him to retire.

George and Connie built a rich life together, supporting one another in every dream and adventure.

He is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Connie Turner; sons Jeff Turner of North Albany, Scott Turner of Sweet Home, and Matthew Henderson Turner (Erin) of Albany; daughters Kim Fuller (Michael) of Spring, Texas, and Angela Turner of Albany; brother Gary Turner (Linn) of Albany; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

He also leaves behind a very close family friend, Leaha Brooks of Spokane, Washington, who was like a daughter to him, along with many nieces, nephews, and lifelong Navy friends — including CJ, who visited George shortly before his passing.

He was preceded in death by his wife Barbara Turner, daughter Heidi Turner, grandson Jaden Turner, parents Edward Alfred Turner and Beatrice Carmen Thomas Turner, in-laws Milton and Lynn Cooley, Colleen Faye Loughmiller Cooley, Grandpa Harley Loughmiller, dear friend Lonnie Melson, and many of his close Navy family.

George leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, hard work, and integrity. His kindness, laughter, and stories will continue to inspire those who were lucky enough to know him. His life was a journey of purpose and passion. The world is undoubtedly a better place for his having been in it. As we bid him farewell, we take comfort in the countless memories and the indelible mark he has left in our lives and on our hearts.

A graveside service to honor George's life will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025, at 12:00 PM at Odd Fellows Cemetery in Lebanon, Oregon.

Following the service, a reception will take place at American Legion Post 51, 480 South Main Street, Lebanon, Oregon 97355. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, and celebrate the remarkable life of George Turner.