Henry “Monte” Turner, age 87, born on August 2, 1938, in New Home, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home in Bucyrus, Kansas, on September 17, 2025. He lived a life marked by dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to his family.
Monte proudly served in the United States Navy for four years, where he was stationed on a destroyer primarily in the Asian theater prior to the Korean War. After his time in the service, he lived in Anaheim, CA, Stanton, CA, Riverbank, CA, Modesto, CA, Escalon, CA, before moving to Bucyrus where he has lived for the past 21 years.
Monte devoted over 40 years of his life to his career as a truck driver, gaining esteemed experience with companies such as Frito Lay, Caltank, and Cutting Edge. His industrious nature and readiness to embrace tasks head-on were hallmarks of his character.
He graduated from Hobbs High School in Hobbs, New Mexico, a testament to the values he carried through life. Monte was known for his original and unique personality; he was hard-headed and very stubborn, yet he possessed a heart full of love for his family. Always willing to lend a hand or provide support, Monte was the embodiment of a devoted family member.
He was a member of the American Legion Post 250, in Louisburg, Kansas, as well as a member of the Teamsters union.
On January 1, 2000, he married his beloved wife, Andrea Turner, who stood by him throughout their years together. Monte leaves behind a legacy in his children: Maria Solarez, Cheryl Turner, Lamon Turner, Lionel (Judith) Turner, and Jennifer (Daniel) Dalrymple. He is also survived by siblings Barbara Tinley, Randy Turner, and Sharon Peterson, along with his sister-in-law, Susan Turner. Monte’s love extended to his grandchildren, whom he cherished deeply: Zachary (Anna) Dalrymple, Christina (Jacob Bolton) Dalrymple, Kaylee (Ben) Lajoie, Omar Kamal, Ramsay Kamal, Juliet Garcia, Atom Garcia, Tony Greener, Marcus Jowes, Kandie Turner, Charlie Cister, Zachary Turner, Nathan Turner, Henry Turner, Kellie Turner, Karlie Turner, and Kaitin Turner. Additionally, he is remembered by numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Monte Turner is preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Lula Turner; his brother, Jerry Turner; brothers-in-law, Mike Tinley and Pete Peterson; and sister-in-law, Kandy Turner.
Monte had a passion for sports, particularly baseball, and enjoyed watching the Royals compete. His love for horse racing was matched only by his enjoyment of BBQing and fishing. An avid listener of old-school country music, Monte found joy in simple pleasures that created lasting memories with those he loved.
As we reflect on the life of Monte, we honor a man whose spirit was indomitable, and whose love for his family knew no bounds. He will be sincerely missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A Celebration of life will be held at a later date.
