Rodney S. Turner, 88, of Wolverton, MN, passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 4, 2025, in Baudette, MN.
Rodney Spencer Turner born on January 17, 1937, in Roosevelt, MN, Leonard and Jessie Mae (Hancock) Turner. His early years were spent in Roosevelt, where he attended grade school, before attending his high school education at Williams High School in Williams, MN. During his high school years, Rodney proudly played hockey.
Rodney’s life took a beautiful turn when he met his future wife, Margaret Aery, at the local movie theater in Baudette. Their love flourished, culminating in a heartfelt proposal witnessed by Margaret’s nephew, Joe Ellis. Together, they made their home in Roosevelt, MN, where they welcomed their son, LeRoy, followed by their daughter, LaDawn, while they lived in Williams, MN.
Rodney dedicated much of his professional life to operating heavy equipment, loading pulp wood and hauling gravel for logging companies in northern Minnesota. He and Margaret later managed Behrens Construction in Wolverton, a position they held until they purchased the equipment in 1965, establishing Turner Sand and Gravel. With Margaret handling the bookkeeping and orders, they built a thriving business that is now continued by their children, LeRoy and LaDawn. In 1989, they proudly incorporated the company as Turner Sand and Gravel, Inc.
The couple shared many adventures with family and friends, including seasons spent in sunny California and delightful travels to Hawaii, Alaska, and memorable cruises. Along with a trip to Sri Lanka with their granddaughter. They also loved motor home trips with their grandchildren, creating lasting memories at places like Valley Fair, Florida, and the Winnipeg Zoo.
In 2017, Rodney and Margaret embraced winters in Mesa, Arizona, where they invested in their first southern home, conveniently located across from Rodney’s sisters. They enjoyed spending time together, playing cards, sharing meals, and engaging in local projects, while Rodney also enjoyed evenings filled with billiards.
Rodney is survived by his wife of 67 years, Margaret; their children, LeRoy (Bonnie) and daughter, LaDawn (Tim) Nicklay; six grandchildren, Grant Israelson (Taya Spelhaug), Michael Thiessen, Toni Jacob, Casey Thiessen, Vanessa (Luke) Kratzer, and Cass Edwards (Sydney Spomer); along with 11 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Marjorie Solien and Norma Johnson.
Visitation for Rodney will be held Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Faith Lutheran Church in Wolverton, MN from 5PM – 7PM with a 7PM Prayer Service. His funeral service will be held Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 2PM in Faith Lutheran Church. Officiating will be Pastor Devlyn Brooks. Interment will be in Deerhorn Cemetery, Wolverton, MN.
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