Michael Cleveland Turk

 Michael C. Turk took his ultimate and final trip on December 29, 2020. Michael loved to travel and said his favorite part was the planning. Although he didn't get to plan this trip, he got a great deal...and he always loved a good deal. 

He leaves behind his treasured wife of 51 years, Karen Smith Turk, his beloved children Brian Turk, Erin Turk Hedge and son-in-law Robert Hedge, and celebrated grandchildren Harper, Lee and Moses Hedge.  

Michael was born in South Carolina on November 21, 1948. After attending Clemson University and graduating from University of Florida, he received his MBA from University of West Florida.  He then entered the Air Force in 1972 where he served as an engineer for 22 years. After retirement from the Air Force, he continued to work at Eglin Air Force Base as a contractor and civil servant and was respected and liked (mostly) for his direct approach with his co-workers and desire to get to the heart of the matter. 

His work allowed him to use his engineering mind for the good of the country, but his penchant for helping others, along with his mechanical skills, made him the first call for many friends and family when something wasn’t working, if they needed an “expert” opinion, or wanted help finding a good deal. He took to heart James 2:26 “faith without works is dead” and served God faithfully by serving others.

After retiring as a civil servant, he and his wife took time to travel to 33 different countries where they enjoyed the local cuisine and culture. Mike and Karen had many wonderful trips with friends and family. They also enjoyed the freedom of visiting family whenever possible, including his sister and brother-in-law, Pamela and Timothy Pritchard,  and his brother and sister-in-law, Timothy and Sandra Turk. 

Michael was a man who played hard and worked harder; he will be greatly missed. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, January 3, 2021 at Beachside Community Church in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.

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