Alan was born on January 12, 1955, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Joseph and Margaret (Anderson) Turnis. He grew up on a small family farm just outside of Bernard, where he learned the value of hard work, responsibility, and the importance of community. From a young age, Alan showed an affinity for the land and nature. His love for farming and the rural way of life shaped him into the man he would become.
Death- Obituary of Alan Turnis: Bernard, Iowa
Alan attended Western Dubuque High School, where he was known for his commitment to academics, athletics, and his friendly nature. He was a star on the school’s track and field team and earned the respect of both classmates and teachers. His leadership skills were evident even then, and many remember him as a kind and approachable young man who was always willing to lend a hand or offer a word of encouragement.
After graduating high school in 1973, Alan attended Iowa State University, where he pursued a degree in Agricultural Science. His college years were marked by hard work, dedication, and a passion for sustainable farming practices. It was during his time at Iowa State that he met the love of his life, Deborah “Debbie” Nelson. The two shared a love of the outdoors and a vision for building a life together.
Alan and Debbie married in 1977 and together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and adventure. They moved to Bernard, where Alan began working on the family farm alongside his father, Joseph. After Joseph’s passing in the early 1980s, Alan took over the farm, continuing the traditions of his forefathers while also modernizing operations to incorporate new technologies and sustainable practices. His deep respect for the land was always evident, as he worked tirelessly to ensure the farm remained a legacy for future generations.
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Alan and Debbie raised three children: Jennifer, Adam, and Lucas. He was a dedicated father, always putting his family first. Whether it was coaching Little League baseball or attending his children’s school plays, Alan made sure he was involved in their lives. His love and support were constants, and his children grew up knowing that they could always count on him for advice, guidance, and encouragement.
Alan’s love for farming was matched only by his devotion to his community. In addition to his work on the farm, Alan was an active member of the Bernard community. He served on the Bernard Volunteer Fire Department for over 30 years, where his leadership and calm demeanor in emergencies made him a trusted figure. His service to the fire department was one of the many ways he gave back to the town that had supported him throughout his life.
Alan was also a longtime member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Bernard. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he lived out the values of kindness, humility, and service to others. Alan helped organize the church’s annual harvest festivals and was involved in numerous other community events. His commitment to helping others was unwavering, and he took great pride in making sure the community of Bernard was a place where everyone could thrive.
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As a farmer, Alan understood the challenges of rural life and was an advocate for local agriculture. He served on the board of the Iowa Farm Bureau and worked tirelessly to promote sustainable farming practices and advocate for the interests of family farmers. His deep understanding of the land and his passion for preserving it for future generations made him a respected voice within the farming community.
In 2012, Alan became a proud grandfather when his first grandchild, Emily, was born. Over the next several years, Alan’s family grew with the birth of two more grandchildren, Ethan and Olivia. His grandchildren were a source of endless joy, and Alan was thrilled to watch them grow up. He enjoyed spending time with them on the farm, teaching them about the land, and passing down the wisdom he had gained throughout his life. His grandchildren fondly remember him for his gentle nature, his stories of growing up on the farm, and his love of the outdoors.
Alan and Debbie shared a deep and lasting love. Together, they traveled, explored new places, and enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. They were inseparable, always supporting one another through both the good times and the challenges. Alan’s family was his greatest treasure, and he found immense fulfillment in the bonds he shared with his loved ones.
Alan’s life was defined by his strong moral compass, his sense of duty, and his commitment to his family and community. He was a man of great integrity, and his word was his bond. He believed in doing what was right, even when it was not easy. Alan’s example of hard work, compassion, and selflessness will continue to inspire those who knew him.
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In addition to his work on the farm and his community service, Alan was an avid lover of nature. He enjoyed long walks in the woods, bird watching, and tending to his garden. He was a quiet man, but those who knew him well knew that he was a man of deep thought and quiet wisdom. His ability to listen, to offer counsel, and to be a steady presence in the lives of his family and friends was one of his greatest gifts.
Alan is survived by his wife, Deborah Turnis; his children, Jennifer (Matt) Thompson, Adam (Megan) Turnis, and Lucas Turnis; his grandchildren, Emily, Ethan, and Olivia; his sister, Karen (Jim) Smith; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Margaret Turnis.
A celebration of Alan’s life will be held on November 1, 2024, at 10:00 AM at St. John’s Catholic Church in Bernard, with Father Michael Doyle officiating. Visitation will be held on October 31, 2024, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the church, with a prayer service at 6:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Alan’s memory to the Bernard Volunteer Fire Department or the American Heart Association.
Alan Turnis’ life was a testament to the values of love, hard work, and community. He was a man who dedicated his life to his family, his farm, and his neighbors, and his legacy will live on in the lives of all those he touched. His passing is a great loss, but his memory will continue to inspire and guide us. Rest in peace, Alan, and thank you for the countless ways you made this world a better place.
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