Arba M. Turner

Arba Marvin Turner, 86, of Washington Island, passed peacefully at his home.

Arba was born in Pierre, South Dakota, the son of Howard and Edna (Marvin) Turner. He also had a younger sister, Janet, who preceded him in passing. When Arba was 4, his family moved to Waupun, WI. After graduating high school in 1957, Arba joined the Navy. He spent 20 years serving his country with honor and distinction, serving a tour in Vietnam. He did not care to speak of that time which also speaks to his character. After leaving the service he moved to Chicago where he met and married Maggie.

His father passed and was followed by his mother in 1984 so Arba and Maggie moved to their home on Washington Island, WI. Arba found work at Peikos woodshop. He and Maggie divorced shortly after the company closed. Arba worked for many years at Lamperts Lumber. After Lamperts, he landed his dream job, working for the Washington Island Ferry Line. It was from the Town of Washington that he eventually retired again and moved to the Island’s senior community, Velkommen.

He met the love of his life, Pam Goodlet, in 1986, at a Christmas party. Arba enjoyed fishing, jigsaw puzzles, growing flowers, and tending his bird friends, as well as cooking and woodworking in Pam’s shop. He and Pam enjoyed many meals while they watched their beloved Packers and Brewers games on TV. He loved taking drives with Pam and getting ice cream at the Alby. One month in particular in July, and to Pam's delight, they drove every single day, and some days twice. Arba was a wonderful and generous man who cared for and helped others. He will be sorely missed in this community as he was also a gifted conversationalist with a wonderful smile.

He is survived by the love of his life Pam Goodlet and his many friends.

Casperson Funeral Home of Sister Bay is assisting the family. Expressions of sympathy, memories and photos of Arba may be shared with his family and friends through his tribute page at www.CaspersonFuneralHome.com.

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