Obituary of John Michael Turner

John M. Turner of Buffalo passed away Sept. 20, 2014. He was predeceased by his father, Charles F. Turner Jr. John is survived by his mother, Virginia; siblings, James (Connie); Kimberly (Mark) Spangler; Charles (Sondra); Jane (Darrin) Evans; Tracy (Marc) Dovi; nieces, nephews and many loving friends. A graduate of Irondequoit High School, John attended Farmingdale State College in Long Island where he played lacrosse before pursuing his love of landscape design. He started a landscaping company and left his personal touch on properties from South Carolina to western New York. John enjoyed meeting people, and anyone who met him discovered a man who truly cared. He was quick with a winning smile and an empathetic ear. He was fascinated by history and the countless facts it provided, and he appreciated learning new things. John also liked the little things in life; the way the greenery of one plant complemented the colorful flower of another. He liked the way a well-thrown spiral pass looked traveling through the air. He enjoyed a good laugh and a well-told story. John hated injustice of any kind and always looked out for the little guys in life. He was a big man – 6 feet 2 inches – but his tenderness of heart belied his physicality. He was a son, brother, uncle, great-uncle, godfather and friend. John was loved. Calling hours are 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26 at Jennings, Nulton and Mattle (1704 Penfield Road). In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Helmer Nature Center in Irondequoit (154 Pine Grove Ave.)