In Loving Memory of John “JT” Turner

We regret to inform you that John Tuner was killed in a tragic motorcycle accident on Sunday, July 23, 2006 at 11:30 AM.

JOHN WILLIAM TURNER
Born in Minneapolis
October 22, 1959 to July 23, 2006

John is survived by loving wife Paula, daughters Lauren and Lindsey, step-daughter Kelly, parents Bill and Kay Turner, sisters Tammy (Tom) Ubl and Tracy (John) Hughes, as well as nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and lots of friends. John served with the U.S. Naval Services for 23 years, volunteered with the Okontoe Hockey League, White Bear Lake Hockey, and was a member of the Freemen Motorcycle Club – a service club that benefits others in the community.

Funeral Services: 10:00 AM Monday, July 31, 2006  at SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS LUTHERAN CHURCH, 3920 North Victoria Avenue, Shoreview, MN. Visitation: 2:00-6:00 PM Sunday, July 30, 2006 at HOLCOMB-HENRY-BOOM FUNERAL HOME (651-482-7606), 515 West Highway 96 at Mackubin, Shoreview, MN. There will also be visitation on Monday before the funeral from 9:00 AM until the time of the service. Interment: Fort Snelling National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials preferred.

Introduction

For over two decades we have been bringing the Gospel of Jesus Christ to ice rinks all over Minnesota, as well as northern Ontario and Manitoba, Canada. Our ministry uses the sport of hockey to gain common ground with people. We strive to become friends with people who would usually never see the inside of a church and to share the message of reconciliation to God -- through Jesus Christ.

In the Twin Cities we have an eight team, adult men's hockey league in session from October through March. During the spring and summer months we offer a informal hockey program for men, as well as a native youth hockey school for kids.

Another important focus is short term ministry trips to native communities in northern Ontario and Manitoba. Since it's inception in 1980, Okontoe Sports Ministries has brought teams of Christian hockey players, musicians, and other soldiers of God to seven different native communities on over thirty-four different trips.