Christopher William Turnis
March 06, 2015
Christopher William Turnis, 42, peacefully departed this life for his heavenly home on March 6, 2015 surrounded by his family.
He approached his brain cancer journey, as he did his life, a warrior and endured every step with a kind and courteous heart. Services will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 7075 Ashworth Road in West Des Moines, with visitation from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, March 12 – Rosary at 7:30 p.m., and the Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, March 13 at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be at Jordan Cemetery in West Des Moines.
Christopher was born October 28, 1972 in Joliet, IL to Verna (Vaske) and William Turnis. He graduated from Central DeWitt High School and Simpson College. He worked for The Principal Financial Group, as a Pension Proposal Specialist and was a member of the St. Francis of Assisi Knights of Columbus.
Christopher was a remarkable person. As an athlete, he enjoyed the competitiveness and comradery of playing football, baseball, and golf. He was an enthusiastic fan of the Hawkeyes and the Steelers, proudly wearing his black and gold. The brotherly love built with his grade school friends is a true testament of their commitment to each other. This bond strengthened his will throughout his journey.
Christopher loved spending time with his family, especially his wife – they were inseparable. Chris’ courage, selflessness, and optimism are an inspiration to all who share this journey with him.
He is survived by his wife of 15 years, Helene; his mother, Verna Turnis; siblings, Brian (Kari) Turnis, Kim (Dan) Burzlaff, Leanne (Scott) Weydert, and Renee (Matt) Meier; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Alex and Josephine Alexander; sisters-in-law, Christina (Nirmal) Raj, and Anita (Dennis) Breen; and sixteen nieces and nephews. Christopher was preceded in death by his father, Bill Turnis; his grandparents; and his godfather, Phil Turnis.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family. Condolences may be expressed online at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Sam and Ann Herrera
03/11/2015
Helene, we are deeply saddened by the news of Chris's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. When we lose a loved one here on earth, we gain an angel in heaven that watches over us. May you take comfort in knowing that you have an angel to watch over you now. We extend our most sincere condolences to you. - Sam & Ann Herrera, Texas
Jenny Robertson
03/11/2015
Helene, I am so very sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my prayers during this difficult time.
Chet, Lainie and Zach Reyes
03/11/2015
Helene,
We are so sorry for your loss. Chris is so special and your strong bond together- it is the most beautiful relationship one can have! Wishing you and your family strength and peace during this difficult time.
Lisa Jolliff (Anitas friend)
03/10/2015
Helene, I am so sorry for your loss. He fought his battle with courage and strength. You both remained strong in your faith and that is a wonderful thing. You were always by his side and that had to have brought him such comfort. My deepest sympathy.
Trudy Huisman
03/10/2015
Brian and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find comfort in your treasured memories.
Francine,Denny Matthew and Josh Chau
03/10/2015
We are so sorry for your loss, May you know we are keeping all of you in our hearts and prayers .
Debby Cline
03/10/2015
Helene -
I'm so saddened to hear of the passing of your husband. Peace to you and your family in this difficult time.
Barry & Patty Anderson
03/10/2015
We are so sorry for your loss. Chris is with his heavenly Father and his worldly Father now. Our Deepest Sympathy.
Barry & Patty Anderson
DeWitt, IA.
Dave Bierman
03/10/2015
My deepest sympathies go out to Helene and Verna and all of Chris' siblings and extended family. He fought the good fight, like we all knew he could and would, and is now at peace. I have many cherished memories growing up with Chris and he was always a good friend. You are all in my prayers during this difficult time. God bless you all!
Sri Chevuru
03/10/2015
I am sorry to hear your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Katie McCullum
03/10/2015
My heart goes out to you. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Don Kimberley
03/10/2015
Leanne - My thouughts and prayers are with you and your family as you go through the upcoming days
Terrence Paul
03/10/2015
Self, Joyce and children share our heart felt condolence to our dear brother's family. No words can soothe or make good the loss expect for the thought our brother is in a better place in the loving and caring hands of our Lord Jesus.We pray that the Lord Jesus will strengthen our dear sister Radi.
Shalini Eugene
03/10/2015
May his soul rest in peace.Our heart felt condolences to his family.May Almighty Lord be with Radi to carry on with her life.We pray that Jesus may give strength and comfort to the family.
William Ngo
03/10/2015
Dear Helene, I'm so sorry to hear the loss of the love of your life. Remembering your great love for each other today and always. May your heart soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived with Chris.