With respect, we share this obituary of Fred Turner, late of Durham. With great sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of our dear Dad and Grandfather, Frederick Turner. Born on St. Clarens Ave., Toronto, son of the late Albert and Ellen Turner, brother to Ruth (Mitchell), and half-brother to Lillian (Menagh) and Frank Herbert. Married to our beloved late mother, Margaret Isabelle Turner (n. Butterworth). Will be greatly missed by children, James (Craig) and Carole Ann (Joe), daughter-in-law, Carol Mary, and grandson, Nicholas. Predeceased by son, Peter (2007). Brother-in-law to the late Elizabeth (Betty) and George West, remembered fondly by niece and nephews, Marianne, George, Chris, and Rob.
Fred pursued his interests with passion: fine hand-printing, art, architecture, local history, reading, sports, the outdoors, and, of course, books and more books! He was a true "bibliomaniac," loving his side hustle, "Frederick Turner Books & Art", mingling with other booksellers at countless antiquarian fairs and markets. He was fond of Toronto Poet Laureate, Raymond Souster (2012), promoting his work at every opportunity. Also, a lover of music , especially Leonard Cohen and k.d. Lang.
A proud Torontonian, Fred knew the city inside out. He was a long-time resident of High Park/Swansea and an active member of the local historical society. Enjoying leading walking tours, he created "1000 Steps of Swansea", climbing the many staircases of the area.
He believed in active citizenship wherever he lived. Fred was an avid hiker, President of the Toronto Bruce Trail Club during its early years, and countless family days were spent on its paths. He and Isabelle were awarded Lifetime Honorary Memberships for their volunteering and dedication to the Trail. He extended his love for the Niagara Escarpment by leading educational hikes for hundreds of children from Cloverdale P.S. in Etobicoke. Along with Isabelle, Fred enjoyed time with the William Morris Society, attending lectures and memorable trips to the Cotswolds, the Byrdcliffe and Roycroft arts colonies, and Wright's Fallingwater.
In his later years, Fred realized his dream of escaping to the country, Durham, ON, and opening a bookstore in his home, "The Hedges". He thoroughly enjoyed his time there, met many wonderful and caring friends, his companion Judith (Ketcheson), and hosting many soirées in his home. He cut quite the dapper figure, walking along main street in the company of his loyal four-footed friend, Jasper.
During this sad time, we remember, with love, Isabelle and Peter. Messages of condolences can be left at Legacy.com. In lieu of flowers, donations to The Bruce Trail Conservancy, or the Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority are appreciated. Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will follow this summer, date to be announced.
published in the Toronto Star, June 11, 2022
