Raymond Ira Turner
12-6-1928 to 12-17-2013
A Master Falconer joining his companions in their flight…
Born in Connecticut and traveled with family to California during the depression where he stayed until he enlisted in the U.S. Navy for the remainder of WWII. He then joined the Army and served proudly in heavy combat during the Korean War. On return, he married Margaret Davis. Together they raised four children. As a Master Falconer, he made a life of nature, animal welfare, and the environment a family focus. His proudest years were over 25 in the California Division of Forestry (CDF.) He opened the Esperanza fire station in Mountain Ranch, CA and transferred to the Calaveras County headquarters in San Andreas where he served as Captain until his retirement. There he mentored young men in firefighting and in life – many of whom remain his closest friends.
He is survived by his children, David Hodo of NY, Lee Hodo of Santa Rosa, CA and Donna Rae Turner of Sacramento, CA and his brother Franklyn Turner of LA Honda, CA.
A military memorial is planned for Friday March 7th, 2014 – 2:30 p.m. at Sacramento Valley VA Cemetery, 5810 Midway Drive, Dixon, CA.