Tom has finally “slipped the surly bonds of earth” and passed away very peacefully Sept. 16, 2014, after suffering complications of Parkinson’s disease.

He is survived by his wife Kathleen, daughter Mari (Autrey) James, sons Richard and Andrew (Felicity); grandchildren Avery and Fiona James, Will, Eddie and Marli Turner.

Tom was born in Hillcrest, Alberta Nov. 25, 1935 to George Turner b. Quebec City; Mary Turner b. Dyce, Aberdeenshire.

He grew up and finished grade 13 in Fernie, B.C. and attended U.B.C. in Vancouver. He Joined the R.C.N. as a midshipman: attending H.M.C.S. Cornwallis in the JAOBTC, followed by a duty cruise on H.M.C.S. Quebec.

He then did flight training with the U.S. Navy at NAS Pensacola, Foley, Ala. and NAS Kingsville. On his return to Canada, he served at H.M.C.S. Shearwater and aboard H.M.C.S. Bonaventure.

He met his wife Kathleen in Bermuda and they married at H.M.C.S. Shearwater in 1962. He was recruited by United Airlines, coming to the U.S. in 1965 and enjoying a 30-year career continuing to do his favorite things — flying and traveling.

He used his extensive knowledge of history and geography for his daily crosswords, genealogical studies and articles. He also played, refereed and coached soccer. His family thanks caregivers Debbie and Meagan, Time Together, the staff of Fairhaven and Hospice of the N.W.

No memorial service is planned and his ashes will be scattered at sea at a later date.