Frederick R. Turner, 84, of Orange, beloved husband of Leatrice (Cardea) Turner, passed away on June 28, 2026

Frederick R. Turner, 84, of Orange, beloved husband of 60 years to Leatrice M. (Cardea) Turner, passed away on June 28, 2026. Born on August 24, 1941, in New Haven, CT, he was the son of the late Friedrick and Joanna (Schön) Turner.

Fred lived a life defined by love, hard work, loyalty, and devotion to family. He and his beloved wife, Leatrice, built a life together in Orange where they raised their family and created countless cherished memories.

Fred earned his Associate Degree in Business before completing his Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Management from the University of New Haven. Fred held a long career in quality control at Ansonia Copper & Brass, retiring at the age of 64.

Fred proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam era as a base military police officer. He was also stationed at Fort Drum military installation near the Canadian border, where he faithfully carried out his duties with dedication and honor. His service reflected the deep sense of responsibility and commitment that remained with him throughout his life.

Fred had a lifelong passion for automobiles, especially antique Model A Fords. He took great pride in restoring them himself and attending local car shows. Many hours were spent working on cars with his dear friend, the late Frank Zold.

Fred’s friendships ran deep. He kept many of his childhood friends throughout his life especially Tommy Jeffers and his best friend, the late Jimmy Hogan with whom he shared his passion for motorcycles.

Fred was known for his thriftiness and heating the house with a wood fire. Countless hours were spent in the pursuit of wood to keep his family warm in the winter with the help of the late Bob Brinton.

He enjoyed cycling and treasured the time he spent riding with his daughter through the Laurel Bike Club, where he served as treasurer.

Fred lived his faith through service to others and was an active member of the Orange Lions Club where he was four times past president. As a Living Treasure honoree of Orange, he dedicated many hours generously serving his community.

Nothing brought Fred greater happiness than spending time with his family. Affectionately known as "Pa" by his grandchildren, he delighted in teaching each of his children and grandchildren how to drive—a rite of passage they will always remember. He treasured family fishing trips, Left Right Center games, family Easter egg hunts and annual vacations to Cape Cod. His hobbies were baking chocolate chip cookies, building LEGO creations, and playing Aggravation.

Fred had a mischievous sense of humor that could brighten any room. Whether helping someone in need, tackling a new project, or lending a hand to family and friends, Fred was known for his generosity, determination, and unwavering loyalty. He was hardworking, loving, driven, and deeply devoted to those he loved. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his memory will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.

In addition to his beloved wife, Leatrice, he is survived by his children, Dawn (James) Turner-Castelli, and Heidi (Keith) Namiot; grandchildren, Henry Namiot, Charles “Chuckie” Namiot, and Vivienne “Vivi” Namiot; siblings-in-law, Frank (Judy) Cardea and their children; cousins, Helga Deisinger, Walli Meschuck, Madeline (David) Tunison, and his cousin’s children. Predescesed by his parents Friedrick and Joanna (Schon) Turner, parents-in-law Frank and Mary Cardea, and cousin’s Betsy (Steve) Skalicky.

Friends and family may call from 9:30am to 12:30pm on Friday, July 10, 2026 at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 BROAD ST., MILFORD, CT. A Memorial Service will be celebrated at 11:30am at the funeral home. Interment with Military Honors will immediately follow at Saint Lawrence Cemetery 280 Derby Ave., West Haven, CT. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Orange Lions Club at orangectlions.org. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.