A Tribute to Kenneth Turner: 31st August 1932 - 29th January 2017

I feel very lucky to have had Ken as my Dad for all the years I did. He was a kind, honest and loyal man who taught me how to be a good person and be appreciative of others. Ken had a very humble, and sometimes difficult upbringing, in socially and economically challenging times.

Leaving school at a young age, he eventually ended up becoming a very talented and highly skilled toolmaker at Sanderson Kaysor in Sheffield for over 45 years. Ken spent some time in the army in his youth and loved the camaraderie and friendships he developed there. He would often regale us with army stories, which he openly embellished for our entertainment.

Ken was also a keen sports enthusiast and family man. He was married twice (his first wife passing away tragically when Ken was in his late twenties), then being married to his second wife for 52 years. He did his very best in raising three children of his own, and ended up a proud Grandfather of four at the time of passing. He loved playing badminton and fishing, was an avid spectator of all sports, inducting all the family as avid supporters of Sheffield Wednesday Football Club.

His final days as an out patient at St. Luke's gave him much joy, relief, comfort and companionship. He dearly loved visiting there and was taken care of fantastically and compassionately by the staff there. I cannot praise them enough for the sterling and admirable work they do, which ultimately led to me happily setting up this legacy fund for my father.

Finally, at his funeral, I read out a poem I'd written and sent to my Dad around a year before he passed. I was told by my Mum that he cried when he read it, which was rare for a man who sadly kept his emotions mostly in check. Reading this at his funeral was one of the hardest, proudest and most poignant things I've ever done:

My Dad by Matt Turner

I wish I could be like my Dad. Loyal, kind and never bad.

With admirable principles, steeped in honour. Treating a woman with respect, when he lay eyes upon her.

A provider of laughs and of hard labour. A gentle man and reliable neighbour.

Always sacrificing himself for the greater good. Like a modern day Superman or Robin Hood.

Caring and noble, with a big heart inside. A purveyor of truth and a man of few lies.

Yes, I wish I could be just like my Dad. And then I realize I am, because he taught this lad.

To be like him and carry forth that gold. Of those beautiful values I now uphold.

So forward I go upholding my father. This wonderful man who helped raised me from birth.

The greatest man I ever saw walk this earth.

Kenneth Turner. I love you. 

Ken is survived by his wife, daughter, two sons, four grandchildren and one great grandchild.

If you knew Ken, please donate what you can to this amazing hospice, St. Luke's in Sheffield. I am very grateful for you reading this and donating.

Much love,

Matthew (Ken's youngest son).