Obituary of Leo Charles Turner

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Leo Charles Turner, of London and formerly of St. Marys, who passed away at University Hospital London on April 24, 2026 in his 90^th year. 

Leo is predeceased by his parents, Charles Turner and Teresa Turner (nee McNamara) and his siblings, Monica (Harvey), Kathleen (John), Patrick (Frances) and son-in-law Deacon Leo Gulikers. 

He will be greatly missed by his wife of 63 years, Helena (nee Stroeder) and his children Cindy, Kim and Mark (Sandra Spence);  grandchildren Maria Gulikers (Dan Haggith) and Jessica Gulikers (Cameron Core), Leah Turner (Miguel Freitas) and Zachary Turner; and great-grandchildren Watson and Rhys Core.

Leo was born in Windam Centre and grew up in the Tillsonburg area. At the age of 19 he got on a tuna boat travelling to the Galapagos Islands, recently writing a book about his travels. After going to Teachers College, Leo taught in London, Oakville and finally in 1966 he settled with his family in St. Marys and taught at Holy Name of Mary, eventually becoming principal. Leo also taught in Stratford before his retirement.  Leo joined the St. Marys Community Players in 1974, performing in numerous plays such as Oklahoma, Guys and Dolls and Anne of Green Gables, to name a few. 

One of his many retirement projects, Leo enjoyed his model trains and was a member of the Stonetown Model Railroad Association. He also played Slo-pitch with the Eh Team and Canoe Club, and enjoyed golfing and curling. He was a faithful member of Holy Name of Mary Parish and longtime member of the choir.

Family and friends are invited to HOLY NAME OF MARY PARISH, Northeast corner of Widder St. E. and Peel St. N. St. Marys, on Thursday, April 30, 2026 for visiting from noon until the Funeral Mass at 2 pm.

Click here to view a video of the Funeral Mass.

Interment in St. Marys Cemetery, 150 Cain St., St. Marys

Reception to follow at the St. Mary Legion, 66 Church St. N. St. Marys.