Curtis Mark Turner reunited with the universe on January 12, 2025, after a long, valiant battle with illness. Curt was born on May 25,1951 in Kansas City, Missouri to Ruby Jewell Turner and Clarence Turner. He was one of five children: Charles Turner, Craig Turner, Charlene Arno (Turner) and Sister Cindy Turner.
Curt grew up in Santa Clara, CA and received his college education at San Jose State University and the University of San Francisco, after which he pursued a successful career in Computer Programming and later in IT Project Management where he spent much of his professional career.
Curt married his wife and fiercest ally, Connie Lee Turner (Bass), in 1984. Together they raised three children in Fremont, CA: Kevin Schlauch, Marc Schlauch, and Lisa Beck (Schlauch). He was known as “Dad” to many of his children’s dearest friends through the years. Curt and Connie moved to Truckee, CA where they built a house on a hill and enjoyed the quaint and picturesque mountain town life for several years. They moved to Herriman, Utah in 2005 where they reunited with their children to enjoy their two beautiful grandchildren, Ava Elise Beck and Gavin Kelly Beck who are and will forever be his guiding light. There was never a dull moment spending time together and he could not help but endlessly brag about them.
Curt always had a kind word and a warm hug for friends and family and even strangers. He had a boundless, natural curiosity that was inspiring. Curt was a voracious reader on a variety of topics that rivaled the Library of Congress. He enjoyed golf, travel, blogging about politics, comedy, slot machines, flyfishing and hiking (especially in the majestic Sierras).
He enjoyed music, playing classic rock and folk on his guitar. Curt was fascinated with aviation, sailing, and astronomy—even building an observatory with a large telescope to explore the night sky from his backyard in the Bay Area. He lived simply but had impeccable taste. He taught those around him to appreciate that extravagance was not required. Whether it be a delicious meal, a great bottle of wine, a rich cup of coffee, a fine cigar, or a nice cocktail, Curt really knew how to enjoy these simple things. Curt will be best known for being a stellar cook. He had many exquisite dishes that he often prepared and proudly presented to friends and family.
Curt will be deeply missed.
In lieu of a funeral, a small memorial and celebration of life will be held for close family and friends. At the request of the family, please do not send flowers. Donations may be made in Curt’s honor to several charities important to him such as the American Red Cross, the Utah Food Bank or your local Humane Society.
Guestbook/Condolences
It was my great pleasure to have known this kind, compassionate, and highly learned man.
Rest In Peace
Connie & family,
I’m so sorry to hear of Curt’s passing. My warm thoughts & prayers are with all of you. Curt was a wonderful colleague to many at HP, great husband to Connie & amazing father & grandfather. I have fond memories of Curt at HP & while you lived in Fremont. Deepest sympathies. Sincerely, Marsha Baird
Curt and Connie
Curt you will be so deeply missed, I will forever be grateful for the opportunity I got to be able to come see you and connie weekly to clean for you guys, you always brought the biggest smile to my face and always made me laugh, you were the sweetest, thank you for everything.
Dear Aunt Connie and family,
We are deeply saddened to hear of Uncle Curt's passing.
I was recalling the days when Uncle Curt was in college and he would drive down to SoCal in
his old Volkswagen Bug and take Stephen and I to Disneyland (we were just elementary kids then).
When Sylvia and I lived in the Bay Area we enjoyed all the good times we had at your place
in Fremont. I recall hiking with Uncle Curt at the Stevens Creek Nature Preserve a few times, fishing
with him at Lake Del Valle in Livermore and stargazing at his cool backyard observatory.
We always loved the great dinners he cooked for all of us, especially his famous Chicken Kiev!
We will greatly miss him.
With love,
Matt Arno and family
Curt was the most loving, caring person I’ve known. Connie has been my friend over 40 years and Curt opened his heart and extended love to me too. He’ll be missed - his presence added joy to all around him. Goodbye Curt - you were a really good friend. Love you!
Curt made you feel so important during our conversations. I will fondly recall greeting him with “…good to see you,” and he would reply with a hug and a giant smile ”… it is good to be seen!” We will remember your humor and warmth Curt!