Christopher William Turnis
March 06, 2015
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Service Details
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.
Gene & Elaine Harrison
03/08/2015
We all have our own special, favorite memories of Chris. Mine is of a red-haired freckle-faced 4 year old who has the most mischievous little grin- like he definitely knows something you don't, and you aren't going to like it when you do. Everybody who knew Chris has those kind of special memories that just make you smile. Chris had great courage and strength, just like the rest of his family. Our thoughts and prayers are with the whole Turnis family.
Carla (Digmann)Sowell and family
03/08/2015
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. I was sorry to hear this, but he is suffering no more. Praying for comfort and peace for your family.
Carolyn Mackin
03/08/2015
So sorry to hear about your loss, Will pray for all of you, He was blessed to have a great family to be there for him.
Nick and Cindy Jacobsen
03/08/2015
You have our deepest sympathy.
Carol Digmann
03/07/2015
Thinking of all of you and praying for comfort and peace. I admired Chris' strength and the strength of the whole Turnis family.
Larry Burke
03/07/2015
So sad to hear of this. Chris was a great guy. The outpouring of support after his initial diagnosis from his friends and family was awe inspiring. I feel truly blessed to have known the Turnis family.