Robert Turner

Robert “Bob” Turner, age 80 of Marshalltown, Iowa, passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and daughters on Thursday, October 3, 2024, after a short battle with cancer.

Graveside memorial services will take place on Wednesday, October 9 at 11:00 A.M. at Riverside Cemetery. An additional family-led celebration of life will be held at American Legion Post #46 beginning at noon. In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials may be directed to the American Legion Post #46 Lounge, c/o Jennifer, an organization near and dear to Bob’s heart. All those in attendance with classic cars are encouraged to drive them to the services in Bob’s honor. Mitchell Family Funeral home has been entrusted with the care of Bob and his family. For additional questions or condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234.

Robert Dean Turner was born November 21, 1943, in Albion, Iowa. He was the son of Raleigh Ferriss and Nora (Smith) Ferriss and attended Toledo High School. Growing up on a farm, he learned the importance of hard work from an early age. In 1960, he enlisted in the United States Navy and honorably served his country for four years, plus an additional two years in the Navy Reserve. During leave, he met the love of his life, Janet “Jan” Schuler. The couple was united in marriage during a blizzard on January 22, 1965. They made their home in Marshalltown, where they raised their two daughters, and Bob dedicated over 35 years to Lennox Industries.

Bob never met a stranger, and his love for life was only outmatched by his love for others, especially his daughters and granddaughters. Bob derived great enjoyment from his classic cars, participating in many car shows and parades, especially with his 1961 Chevy Impala. He loved to drive and see the countryside, and in retirement, kept himself busy by driving motor coach, school buses and delivering flowers. Bob and Jan also enjoyed their time as “Winter Texans” in the Rio Grande Valley.

Bob was a proud veteran and a member of the American Legion Post #46, where he made many friendships over the years and enjoyed playing golf. He was recently awarded with a “Spinning Wheels” Quilt of Valor. Bob lived his life fully, believing time was precious and not to be wasted. He was the first to arrive and the first to offer help for others. He and his boyish smile will be greatly missed by all those who knew him.

Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife, Jan; two daughters: Sara (Angelo) Carducci of Grapevine, TX and Susan (Adam) Whitten of Hudson, WI; two granddaughters: Erin and Gretchen Whitten; and many close family friends and extended family.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents Raleigh and Nora; and his siblings: two brothers, Larry and Richard, and his sister Shirley.