Michael Leroy Turner

Michael Leroy Turner, 76, known affectionately as Mike by his friends and family, passed away peacefully at his home in Bourbon, Missouri, on March 12, 2024. Born on April 25, 1947, at the family home in Bourbon to his parents, Robert and Dorothy (McCallister) Turner, Mike's life was marked by a devotion to family, a spirit of adventure, and a love for the Western way of life.

Mike's early education took him through the classrooms of Cuba, Missouri, including the Oak Hill Country School, where he was known for his quick wit and easy smile. At the young age of 18, he answered the call of duty and entered the US Navy on November 16, 1965. Although his military career was cut short due to a medical discharge in December 1966, it was a period of his life that shaped much of his character and instilled in him a sense of discipline and pride.

The following year, Mike embarked on a new chapter when he married the love of his life, Rebecca Bishop, on August 5, 1967. Their loving partnership was blessed with two sons, Michael Scott and Matthew, who would grow to share many of their father's passions and values. It was with Becky and their boys that Mike ventured to the Big Sky country of Montana in 1970, fulfilling his dream of living out West. There, he found joy in the expansive landscapes and open skies, which perfectly complemented his cowboy spirit.

In Montana, Mike worked in the Agricultural Department of Montana State University for several years, sharing his love for the land and its cultivation. His hands, skilled and strong, were put to good use as a carpenter. Mike built not only several homes for his family but also a chuckwagon and a sailboat, the latter a testament to his love for sailing that burgeoned amidst the mountainous terrain.

Mike's Western soul found its perfect match in his role as a packer at Yellowstone National Park, where he could be close to nature and live the cowboy life he so cherished. However, family ties would eventually call him back to Missouri in 1993. There, he continued to work, employed with Crawford County Road Department and the Missouri Department of Transportation until his well-earned retirement.

Beyond his professional life, Mike's interests were as vast and varied as the landscapes he loved. He embraced the cowboy lifestyle wholeheartedly, from his attire to his demeanor. Sailing remained a passion, and he enjoyed the freedom of the open water on his own boat. Music brought him joy, and he could often be found playing the fiddle, filling the room with melodies and laughter. In his later years, Mike discovered a new interest in driving and owning small sportscars, reveling in their speed and agility.

Perhaps one of Mike's most cherished roles was that of a grandfather. He adored spending time with his grandchildren, sharing stories that seemed larger than life, and imparting lessons only a life well-lived could teach. His storytelling was legendary, his sense of humor infectious, and his presence a source of comfort and joy.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Becky; his sons:  Scott Turner and wife, Debra of Bozeman, MT, and Matthew Turner and wife, Tina of Bourbon, MO; 6 grandchildren:  Scott Turner and wife, Daiyln of Coeur D’Alene, ID, Jared Turner of Silverton, ID, Hailey Turner of Denver, CO, J.T. Turner of Wilsall, MT, Kylah Turner & Kayden Turner both of Bourbon, MO; two great-granddaughters, Whitney & Payton; three brothers:  James Turner and wife, Glora of Sullivan, MO, Bill Turner and wife, Beverly of Rosebud, MO, and Tom Turner and significant other, Cindy Plafcan of Bourbon, MO; and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant brother, Eugene, a great-grandson, Colson; and his in-laws, Albert and Cecile Bishop.

Services will be 11:00 AM, Friday, March 22, 2024, at First Southern Baptist Church in Leasburg, MO, with Pastor Terry King officiating.  Cremation has taken place.

Family will receive friends at 10:00 AM prior to the service at the church.

Condolences may be shared online with Mike’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan, MO.