Beverly Turner

Throughout her life, Beverly Turner was a woman of her word and one who could be counted on in any situation. She was a hard worker and considered it pure joy to care for her husband and children – and even her children’s friends from time to time. Bev moved with her family leaving the familiar behind, but no matter where they lived, she masterfully turned their house into a home where her family loved to gather. Bev enjoyed a strong faith and was proud of the beliefs that she embraced from the time she was a young woman. She was a woman with a true mother’s heart whose grandchildren were also blessed to feel her tender touch.

The 1920s were a period in our nation’s history that was rich with ingenuity and renewed hope in the American dream. Jobs were plentiful and people enjoyed things such as jazz music, dance marathons, and the Model T which was newly available in green and maroon in addition to the original black. It was on April 26, 1925 that Mr. and Mrs. McNamara welcomed the birth of their daughter, Beverly Jean, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Beverly was the only child in her family and was raised on the family farm in Kendall where they grew mint, onions, and potatoes, and they also harvested hay as well. She attended local schools including Gobles High School where she intentionally graduated third in her class rather than any higher as she did not want to give any speeches!

With her career as a student behind her, Bev entered the workforce for a time. She held down a few different jobs in Kalamazoo, but also nurtured a rather exciting social life during this time. Bev loved to roller skate and dance, and it would be her love for dancing that would pave the way for a fateful introduction. It was while she was attending a dance at Lake Brownwood that she met a handsome young serviceman. His name was Jack Turner and although his tour of duty was not yet complete, he told the young Bev that he would see her again. Jack proved himself to be a man of his word and upon his return, the couple was married on December 7, 1946 at the family home in Kendall.

It wasn’t long before the couple was blessed with the births of three children: Linda, Sandra, and Randall. Bev immersed herself into caring for her husband and children in a variety of ways. She was absolute in her authority, yet also created a home that others were always welcome in. Bev hosted Randy’s football buddies overnight on more than one occasion and provided for them just as though they were her own children. She was also a leader in the local 4-H organization throughout her whole life and taught her children and others invaluable lessons to be used throughout their lives. Bev loved cooking for her family and was famous for her mouth-watering meats, apple upside-down cake, and gingerbread. She even made sure that her children knew how to cook too.

Jack had amply provided for Bev and their children as a grape farmer, but after a time Jack and his son Randy decided that cattle farming would be better for their family. As a result, they moved their family to the Upper Peninsula in 1968 where they established a cattle farm. They remained in their small town of Dafter, Michigan for the following 35 years where they continued to work hard. When her family grew to include grandchildren, nothing could have pleased Bev more. She was instrumental in raising her grandson Travis who lived across the street, and she remained close with him throughout her life.

In addition to caring for her family, there were other interests that Bev enjoyed. She followed in the footsteps of her father and grandfather when she joined the Order of the Eastern Star during the early forties. Bev served as a Matron in the Lawton Chapter and was also involved in the county leadership as well. She and Jack enjoyed traveling in their fifth wheel trailer throughout the southwest during the seventies and eighties. They truly treasured this time they had to spend together. At times Bev simply liked to sit and listen to the silence, feeling truly at peace. When she was interested in listening to music, country music was her music of choice.

Like a warm summer breeze, Beverly Turner was a welcome presence to everyone within her reach. She was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother whose family was her greatest source of pride and joy. Beverly, who was lovingly called “meals on wheels,” was reliable and tender, and was always giving preference to the needs of others ahead of her own. Although her family and friends now say goodbye, they will forever hold dear the precious moments they were given to share with such an extraordinary woman. Beverly will be dearly missed.

Beverly “Bev” Turner formerly of Lawton and Dafter, MI died November 16, 2009 at Heartland in Three Rivers. Beverly’s family includes her 3 children, Linda L. (Dennis) Howe of Decatur, MI, Sandy (Jay Conaway) Farkas of Murray, NE, Randy (Judy) Turner of DeWitt, MI; 3 grandchildren, Tina Warner, Travis Turner, Tasha Turner; 2 great grandchildren, McKinnley Warner, Rylee Warner; as well as several nieces and nephews. Beverly was preceded in death by her husband Jack Turner in 1996. Visit with Beverly’s family and friends on Thursday from 6-8 p.m. at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes – Paw Paw, MI, 60900 M-40 657-3870 with an Eastern Star service that evening at the FH. Funeral services will be Friday at the FH (but the time is not confirmed). Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Lawton. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you can sign her guest book, share a memory or photo, or make a memorial contribution to Heartland Hospice, or Chippewa County Fair.