OBITUARY: Howard Dunson “Reb” Turner

Howard Dunson “Reb” Turner, 83, of Coldwater passed away Friday, January 26, 2024 at Bronson Battle Creek Hospital.

Cremation has taken place. Services will be held at a later date at Ft. Custer National Cemetery.

Arrangements are being cared for by Dutcher Funeral Home.

Howard was born January 2, 1941, to Howard and Gladys (Kirkpatrick) Turner in Presidio, CA.  He married Denise Johnson on June 4, 1960, in Gulph Mills, PA.

He went to the University of Pittsburgh for one year and started his military career.  He was an infantry officer for 20 years.  In his two tours in Vietnam, he was a company commander and platoon leader where he earned a Silver Star as well as other medals, badges and campaign ribbons.

After retiring from the Army, he worked at Coldwater Chamber of Commerce as executive director for 10 years and then Hillsdale County Industrial Development Commission.

Reb enjoyed spending his time hunting, working at his cabin, mountain climbing with sons and grandson; traveling and being with his golden retrievers, Leia, Holly and Cooper, and many others before them.

Howard is survived by his wife, Deni Turner of Coldwater, his children, Howard “Jeff” Turner of Tucson, AZ., Gilbert “Gib” (Jessica) Turner of Coldwater and Jeremy “Jay” (Courtney) of Coldwater, his grandchildren, Ryan, Robert (Kristina), Megan, Zachery, Logan and Lola Turner, step-grandsons, Joshua (Rachel) and Zachary Lee and his very close friends, Tammy, John and Ben Laskey of Tekonsha.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jennifer Jeanne “Nif” Turner in 1971.  Not only was he a father to his children, he was also their hero.

Memorials may be made to the Humane Society of Branch County.