Robert H. Turner

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert H. Turner, age 85, of Wayne, NJ.

Robert passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 26^th, 2023 while receiving the loving care of his family.

Robert was born to Robert Jr and Rose Turner of Brooklyn NY. Robert graduated Wayne High School with the class of 1956, having played on the baseball team as a catcher, and later becoming the manager.

Robert met the love of his life Valerie at the Fourth of July Firemen’s Parade at the Preakness Shopping Center, and began dating in 1962. They married in June 1964 and settled in Wayne. Robert and Valerie’s marriage was blessed with their son Barry in 1965. They enjoyed a loving and devoted marriage of fifty-eight years.

Robert was hired by the Township of Wayne on March 23^rd 1962 to work for the Road Department and was transferred to the Health Department in 1971 where he worked as the Animal Control Officer. On October 1^st 1984, Robert became one of the first New Jersey Certified Animal Control Officers and in May of 1989 graduated from the Animal Control Academy in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Robert retired in June 13, 2000 after severing thirty-eight years for the Township of Wayne.

Robert was a member of Community Fire Company No. 1 in Wayne from June 1960 to 1977 where he held the positions of Lieutenant and Captain. Robert was proud to have been a part of the membership who restored the 1911 Christie Steam Engine and the 1930 Aherns-Fox. Robert would always tell the stories of the “old days” of riding the open cab fire trucks, jumping on the back step and pulling up your boots for the fires. This inspired his son and his grandchildren to follow in his footsteps, volunteering for their community and becoming professional first responders.

Robert was a longtime P.A.L. Coach for over 20 years coaching youth baseball, Boys Soccer and Girls Soccer.

Robert loved the outdoors and enjoyed camping at Kymer’s Campground in Sussex County where he and Valerie spent their summers for 50 years. Robert loved tending to his outdoor figurines and was famous for his garden gnomes. Robert spent his Sunday mornings on staff cleaning the campground pool.

Robert is survived by his loving wife Valerie, his son Barry along with his wife Nanci, and his grandchildren Amanda, Michael and Kyle.