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.
Brian Van Alstyne
03/09/2015
Helene and family. I was very sorry to hear about Chris's passing. My condolences and prayers go out to you and your family.
Matt Rueter
03/09/2015
Chris's whole family has my sympathy. I couldn't tell you the last time I saw or spoke to Chris but I hold fond memories of our childhood. He was a good man. Thoughts and prayers are with you all!
Ann Marie Jaschen
03/09/2015
I offer my prayers and sincere sympathy. May Gods eternal Peace be with Chris, and may the strength of the Holy Spirit remain with Helene and all their family and friends.
Julie & Buck Bahndorf
03/09/2015
Sending our deepest sympathy.Thoughts and prayers are with the Turnis family at this difficult time. May the courage and strength Chris had , help you find peace and comfort .
Don and Rachael Colclough
03/09/2015
So sorry to hear about Chris' Passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with Helene and the family.
Dave and Linda Harris
03/09/2015
We were saddened to hear the news of Chris's passing. Our prayers for peace and comfort go out to Helene and all of Chris's family.
Maria Landau-Henkle
03/09/2015
Helene and Family, my sincere condolences to you all on Chris' departure. All of Helene's Wells Fargo family could see her devotion to him. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Mary Kay Turnis
03/09/2015
His journey is finally over; God be with him. I'm sure his loved ones were waiting for him in heaven. God bless all of you for your excellent care and compassion over the years and especially these past few weeks.
Devlina Lahiri and Arindam Chatterjee
03/09/2015
We are so sorry to hear about your loss.You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Praying for comfort and peace for your family.
Stephanie Van Dee
03/09/2015
Helene and family. I was so sorry to hear about Chris's passing. I hope that the love of family and friends will comfort and strengthen you in the days ahead.
Jenny Studer
03/09/2015
My condolences to Helene and Family. I have heard from Helene often of her love and admiration for her husband, Chris, as he was so strong through it all.
Joe and Clarissa D'Souza
03/09/2015
We are sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Judy and Don Pisel
03/09/2015
Brian and Family. We were saddened when we learned Chris's journey had come to an end. However, the reunion of Shawn and your Dad must have been something to see. I bet the "stories" are rolling :) Bless each of you and know he/they will always have front row seats !
Love the Turnis Family
Tony and Rachel Neilson
03/09/2015
We are so very sorry for the loss of your son, brother, uncle, husband and so much more. You all have one amazing angel now looking over you and he is at peace. He had incredible strength as did you all. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Marty and Carla Green
03/08/2015
Verna and Kids, and the whole extended family---I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your son and husband.
Such a nice man from a great family. You will be in a thoughts. Take care .