A Memorial Fund for Eric J Turner

It is with great sadness and grief that our family shares the terrible news of my brother, Eric Turner’s death. Eric’s life ended the afternoon of October 14, 2021, after a long battle with life, itself.

In response to the numerous and gracious offers of support, we humbly ask for donations to this GoFundme campaign to aid us in this time of transition. Our intention is to smooth the path for Angelica as she works to stabilize her family.

Above all, Eric was a loving father and husband. He was also a son, brother, uncle, nephew, Marine, friend, and coach. He was always involved in many lives, communities and projects.
 
Following the example of our uncle Gary and aunt Yvonne, Eric and his wife Angelica built a warm and open home, deeply rooted in the community, constantly full of family, friends, and loved ones. Their home embraces anyone in need of advice, shelter, conversation, a game of dominoes, or a home-cooked meal. There’s always room in their home, it gets crowded and crazy…but there is always room.

 

From my perch as the older brother, I watched Eric build, enrich and improve the people, community and lives around him. Over time, he outgrew the little brother I knew and became a man I admired and tried to emulate; I remain in awe of what Eric accomplished. Eric was powerful, inspired, and fearless in the face of confrontation. Eric was a great man. Past tense—ugh, we all wanted more, Eric.

 

Some things you may not know about Eric but illustrate the man: He was bilingual-ish speaking a version of Spanglish that always made me smile. Eric was a college graduate. It took him years longer than normal, and the VA tried -- several times -- to quit on Eric’s education. Eric wouldn’t have it…he battled them with no intention of ever quitting or letting the VA out of their commitment. Despite no longer needing it professionally, he refused to leave the job undone; he earned that bachelor’s degree.

 

Eric was incredibly strong, he used to do caber tossing. Once, he told me that he was shrugging more weight than his gym’s machines had available-literally lifting the maxed-out machine off the ground. I suggested he might simply pick up the building, he told me that was his goal…I don’t think he was kidding.

Long before it was cool, Eric worked with the developmentally disabled. Putting his adolescent ego and fear aside and relying on his tender heart to love first -- I well up as I recall Eric in this season of his life.

 

None of us got enough of Eric. I encourage all of you to get more, now, of the people you cannot get enough of.

I hesitate to list all the people who deserve mentioning in this post, for fear of leaving someone out… For now, I’ll keep the circle tight while acknowledging the dozens of people on our minds. From Angelica, Kayla, Erica, Jason, Mama Rose, Brenna, Doris, Ana, Silvia, their families, and myself, we open our hearts as we grieve the loss of Eric.

 

There are two events. The funeral is planned for 14Jan, 2pm at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon California. You have to be early for this event. 1:30 - 1:45 is what the cemetery asks. The event is outside, dress appropriately. COVID concerns, this is an outside event. The funeral is 30 mins. 

The celebration of life is scheduled for 15JAN 3pm at the Camel Barns in Benicia. You're welcome to come early and help set up.  We'll start arriving at 2pm for prep.  We are serving a chicken and sausage paella (no nuts, no seafood). There will also be a vegetarian paella. Look up Paul's Paella-it's basically the best tasting and most beautiful paella you've ever had.  The part will end about 6pm. Many of us will continue celebrating in downtown Benicia.  

The camel barns aren't too difficult to find...but if you have trouble.  Call Pete 7072358124

If you must choose between the funeral or the celebration of life, we suggest the celebration of life. Eric would we enjoy his party. 

 

We thank you all for the love and acknowledge the support offered these past few days as we’ve notified friends and family.