"Hard to believe it's been over a year since you left us, Dad. We love and miss you. Myrna"
In loving memory of
George R. Turnbull
March 6, 1920 - April 6, 2012
George R Turnbull, 92, died April 6 at his home in Burlington, after being an elder at Klein for the past 10 months. George was born on March 6, 1920 near Van Cleve, IA. He was raised on a farm in that area, and graduated from Van Cleve High School at the age of 16.
He was the son of Ray and Anna Thompson Turnbull. On January 19, 1947 he married Verlo Marie Petitt in Marshalltown, Ia. and they recently celebrated their 65th anniversary.
George served in the US Navy during WWII as a sub-tender on the USS Pelias in Australia. George was proud of his years in the Navy and took great pride in his responsibilities as a Chief Petty Officer.
After moving to Burlington from Sioux City in 1964, George worked for the Benner Tea Co.and later retired from the IAAP. He was active in several men's bowling leagues and was an avid fan of the St Louis Cardinals and the Iowa Hawkeyes. His greatest joys were his family and the house that he built for his wife and himself nearly 40 years ago.
Survivors include his wife, Verlo of Burlington; three sons, Gary (Karen) Turnbull of Fort Madison, Ray (Jenny) Turnbull of Jupiter, Florida., and Bob (Michelle) Turnbull of Bellevue, Neb.; two daughters, Myrna (Jan) Galbraith of Moline, IL, and Terri (Steve) Crowley of Burlington; ten grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren; and one brother, Raymond Turnbull of Marshalltown.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and two sisters.
Visitation will be Monday, April 9, 2012 in Lunning Chapel where the family will receive friends from 6 until 8 p.m.
The funeral service for Mr. Turnbull will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday, April 10, 2012 in Lunning Chapel with the Rev. David Plooster officiating. Interment, with military rites, will be in Aspen Grove Cemetery, Burlington, Ia.
A memorial has been established for the Des Moines County Humane Society at F&M Bank in Burlington.
Tributes
"I remember George as a very enthusiastic person whenever he told you a story about his life. He told his stories in a very descriptive, animated manner which made it more interesting to listen to. The last time I spoke with him was back in July 2004, in Moline. He told me he was 84 years old but he appeared much younger than his age. I shall never forget George's generous spirit, his quick wit, and his fascinating story telling. George, you were a good man. Your wife, children, in-laws, and grandchildren should all be proud of the person you were. May your soul rest in His presence."
"So sorry to hear of your loss of George. I enjoyed seeing him and talking to him at the bowling alley. He was a really good man."
"My late father, Jim Berry, bowled for years with George. Although I was young at the time, I remember George to be a very well liked, kind and cordial man. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time."