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IN LOVING MEMORY OF
Max Leslie
Turner
July 21, 1921 – November 9, 2010
Max was born in Lago, Idaho to the hard working family of Alma Leslie and Venice Turner on July 21, 1921. He grew up on a farm in Harlem, Montana and later in Declo, Idaho. Being the third of 8 children, he learned the importance of hard work. This character trait has been seen in all he endeavored to do, from trapping muskrats for money as a teenager, to later planning, designing and building the Snake River KOA and Kings Row Estates. He was a builder of character and pursued lifes experiences to the fullest. Max married Maurine Riddle in 1941, they later divorced.
Education was of critical importance to Max. After graduating from Declo High School in 1939, he completed his teaching degree at Albion State Normal School, near his familys home. He told many stories to his children about some of the problems his Jr. High students had, probably in hopes that they would avoid the same trouble. He returned to college to obtain both his Masters and Doctorate degrees in Educational Administration. Max was a school teacher for 5 years and an administrator for 26 years, retiring from education in 1983. He was loved by his students and respected by his peers and colleagues.
Max felt a responsibility to serve his country as World War II began. He joined the Army Air Corps in 1942 where he was a flight instructor of the B-17 or Flying Fortress . As a second lieutenant he greatly valued his military experience and in later years probably felt this was his crowning glory. He could remember dates, peoples names and places as if they happened yesterday as he related story after story of army life. He was flying with his crew to the pacific when the war ended. He was a proud American and an honored veteran.
Max had many hobbies and interests which included woodworking, golfing, hunting, skiing, reading, and traveling. He was a master craftsman having the ability to build and construct just about anything. His family lived in creative and beautifully built homes. They hold dear many of the objects he lovingly built with his inventive mind and skilled hands. He rarely experienced what we consider down time as he was always planning and designing the next project and acting on his original ideas.
Max had a mind and knack for business. He ran the service station in Low, Utah during the 50's, helped establish Estate Realty in SLC in the 60's , designed and helped construct the KOA in the 70's. In the 1980's, alongside his wife Mary Ann, he sewed and sold Indian teepees as well as designed and constructed Kings Row Estates in Washington, Utah where he also served on the City Council.
Max leaves behind a legacy by the example with which he led his life. We value his contributions to our own lives, some in ways yet untold. He was a hero to many and friend to all.
Max is survived by his wife of 29 years, Mary Ann. Children and step-children: DiAnne Shepherd, deceased (Jay), Sheri Caldwell (Richard), Lorraine DeWaal (Clark, deceased), Karen McPhie (Stephen), Steven Turner, Kyle Sullivan (Lynn) Annette Kilpack (Ray), Khris Christensen (Scott). 31 grandchildren, 36 great grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren. Siblings: Blaine, deceased (Nell), Lovell (Beth), Kenneth (Lorna), Venice, deceased, Bruce (Lila), Alma (Joan), Carole, deceased (Ray).
Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 13, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. at the Metcalf Mortuary Chapel, 288 W. St. George Blvd. No viewing will be held. Interment will be in the Washington City Cemetery, 3rd E. 3rd N., Washington, Utah. Please join us for a Celebration of life at 3:00 p.m. at the Kings Row Estates Clubhouse, 180 N. 1100 E., Washington, Utah. A memorial service will be held Thursday, November 18, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. at the Riverton 2nd Ward building, 12550 South Redwood Road, Riverton, Utah. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary 435-673-4221.
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