Lance Turner, 82, of Kenosha, WI passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones on May 9, 2025. It is nearly impossible to sum up one’s life in the confines of a few paragraphs when they have lived such a full and rich life, leaving such a positive impact on those around them. But here is a glimpse into the life of this wonderful man: a devoted husband, nurturing father, adored uncle, loyal brother, admiral son, faithful cousin, fun brother-in-law, loving grandpa, jovial great-grandpa, and unforgettable friend.
Lance was born to Harry and Adele Turner in 1943. He was educated in Kenosha schools and he served in the US Army. At an early age, he sparked a passion for cars and midget car racing, influenced by his father’s livelihood: Turner Auto Body, a Kenosha staple since 1938. Lance worked alongside his father, taking care of automobiles and building race cars. Lance took over the business in 1967 and it has always been known for meticulous work and unparalleled service. In the 2000’s Lance was able to locate two of his father’s race cars, restore them, and bring them back to their original glory. In the latter years, Turner Auto Body became a gentleman’s coffee clutch gathering place where stories of the good ol’ days, midget car racing, and automobiles ran rampant. Lance embraced fatherhood with the births of his beloved daughter Anne (Arneson) and son Lance Jr. He took immense pride in being their father and never missed a moment to show his love. From ice fishing adventures complete with melting plastic gloves on the stove in the shanty to family camping trips up north, cheering at sports and piano concerts, and sharing the magic of Christmas together, Lance’s deep affection for Anne and Lance was always evident. One of his proudest creations was a homemade go-cart he built for them, which they rode for hours behind the shop a beautiful blend of his love for his children and his own passion for race cars.
Over three decades ago, Lance met the love of his life, Cheryl. With quiet determination, he pursued her for nearly a year before she agreed to go on their first date soon after, she knew he was the one. During a trip to Louisiana with friends, Lance surprised Cheryl with an impromptu wedding, and once again, she said yes. Lance embraced Cheryl’s children, Jessica (Thomas Jensen) and Jason, loving and supporting them as his own. Together, they built a blended family rooted in laughter, loyalty, and shared traditions continuing camping adventures, weekends at the racetrack, and racing R/C cars in the Kmart parking lot. Jessica credits Lance for instilling in her the values of family, patience, and hard work. Jason spent many years learning alongside Lance in the family business and proudly carries on that legacy today.
Over the years their family grew exponentially. Nothing made Lance smile more than to be around his grandchildren Molly Wilson (Tim Reichel), Madeline Arneson, Lucas Jensen, Liam Jensen and his great-grandchildren Rubi, Onyx, Citrine, and Emerald. Whether it was making sure there was a train around the tree at Christmas, or giving rides on the golf cart, or keeping a jar full of windmill cookies, Grandpa Choo Choo or Papa was always a loving influence in their lives.
A special thank you to Lance’s hospice care team and all of the friends and family who were there as he went home to be with the Lord, Lance Jr, his brother Rick, his parents, and many other family and friends.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025 beginning at 3:30pm with a service starting at 5:00pm at the Kenosha Kemper Center (6501 3rd Ave Kenosha WI 53143).
Casey Family Options Funerals & Cremations
3016 75th Street Kenosha WI 53142
262-653-0667
www.caseyfamilyoptions.com
Bill Bader says:
Lance was a good car buddy. Every time I would come back to Kenosha Bill Wamboldt and me made sure we would stop by and see him. It’s weird a picture just popped up on my Facebook memories when I was inducted into the Kenosha Legends. Lance’s standing right next to me Rest in Peace old buddy!
Cheryl Pietila says:
I met Lance briefly here and there through out the years. He married a good friend of mine. May this beautiful man RIP. Maybe he can find my husband in heaven. They never met but I’m sure they would get along.
Sheryl Acunal says:
Uncle Lance you will be missed. We love you. Rest in peace.
Keith and Carol Gumbinger says:
Lance was a great car buddy and good friend. He will be missed. Our most sincere condolences to his fanily.
bill kloster says:
Thoughts,and prayers go out to the Lance Turner Family. We enjoyed many years of racing,and outomotive expertise.
Thank You, Bill Kloster
Jon Lyons says:
As Chaplain for American Legion Post 21, Sons of The American Legion Squadron 21, and District 1 out of Kenosha Wisconsin, prayers go out to you all! Remember the gift of knowing this great individual! Salute to you and thank you for your service! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Dan Wooster says:
Lance has been a very dear friend over the years. We shared many great times together at the shop. He guided and assisted me in almost all my projects. Literally too many to list. My daughter and grandson have fond memories of Lance and working at the shop . I was very blessed to spend some time visiting with Lance just before he passed. Thoughts and prayers to Lance’s family.
I will truly miss him.
Dan Wooster