Obituary of Melvin Michael Turner

Melvin Michael Turner, 79, returned to his heavenly home on Wednesday, June 19^th, 2019 at his home surrounded by his family.

He leaves his wife of 35 years, Sherry (Williams) Turner; his sons, Rick Heinzelman (Sandy), Travis Turner (Tina) and Robert Turner (Keri); his daughters, Carmen Taylor and JoAnna Corley (Forest); as well as 11 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; and many close friends.  Melvin is preceded in death by his older sister Tona Stach, and father and mother Melvin & Nancy Turner.

Born and raised in Nezperce, ID, the son of Melvin and Nancy (Brown) Turner, he lived most of his life in the state of Idaho. 

He married his first wife, Dianna Hill in 1962, and then married his second wife Karen in 1968.  Upon the death of Karen, Melvin met the woman he would spend the rest of his life, Sherry Williams in 1981 and they were married in 1984.  This marriage transformed three young boys into three lifetime brothers.   

After graduating from NezPerce High School in 1957, Melvin joined the Army and served as a Band leader in Germany.  Upon the completion of his time in the service, he attended University of Idaho, graduating with a bachelor's degree in Journalism. After graduation Melvin worked for several small finance companies in the Pacific Northwest before finding his career with the Union Pacific Railroad.  He worked with the Railroad from 1968 till his retirement in 1987.  One of his major achievements during his time in the Railroad was overseeing the construction of Hinkle Rail-yard outside of Hermiston Oregon.  This was a multi-year project that brought jobs and opportunity to a small Eastern Oregon Community. 

Melvin had a passion for animals, as he always has a dog at his side. He loved to go camping on the Oregon Coast and in the Blue Mountains of Eastern Oregon.  He also enjoyed boating on the Columbia River.  Sherry and Mike enjoyed composing and singing gospel music.  They would have friends over to share in their Christian faith and music.

In recent years he was a member of the Nazarene Church in Caldwell Idaho where he continued his fellowship.

Melvin was devoted husband, loving father and grandfather that will be missed greatly.

A funeral service will be held June 24^th beginning at 11:00 at Flahiff Funeral Chapel, 624 Cleveland Blvd, Caldwell, ID.  In lieu of flowers the family would request donations to be made in his name to the Complete Care Hospice located 250 W. Bobwhite Ct. #130 in Boise, ID.