Alan was born in Manchester (Eccles) UK to Alice and Stan Turner, the middle child of three. He emigrated to Canada with his parents and two siblings (brother Bill and sister Patricia) when he was thirteen years old.
The Turner family lived in Walkerton, Ontario, where Alan completed his secondary education. While in high school Alan began playing the trombone, and became very actively involved in music—a passion which remained with him for the rest of his life. Alan had the joy of playing with numerous dance and marching bands, as well as singing in a church choir.
In 1961 Alan met Selma Willms. They were married in 1963, and lived in St Catharine's, Ontario until 1967. They then moved to Abbotsford, BC, which became their home. Alan owned and operated Turner Signs until 1999. Alan was well known for the high quality signage that he produced for many businesses in the Fraser Valley. During these years, Alan and Selma had the joy of welcoming their two daughters, Deste and Verlie.
Alan played trombone in numerous bands during the next five decades, among them the Abbotsford Concert Band, the Moonliters, and the Central Heights Church Band. He loved big band music, and arranged music for the Moonliters, the MEI Concert Band and the MEI Razzberry Band.
Predeceased by his parents, brother Bill and nephew Collin, Alan is survived by his wife Selma, their two daughters, Deste (Sieg Voth) and Verlie (David Dalip), grandson Levi Dobbs, granddaughter Taylor (Daniel Hooge), and two great-grandsons, Silas and Solomon Hooge; also his sister Patricia (Doug McDonell), one niece and three nephews.
Alan was also loved and appreciated by an extensive connection on his wife's side, as well as by many friends and all of his Moonliter bandmates.
The Turner family extends thanks to Dr Richard Welsh, and to the doctors, nurses and staff at both ARHCC and Mission Memorial Hospital for their attentive care of Alan. Also, many thanks to the members of the Moonliters, who supported and encouraged Alan during these many years.
A private memorial service is being planned.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the War Amps: https://www.waramps.ca/ways-to-give/donate/
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