William Gene Turner

William Gene Turner passed away on January 3, 2014 in Austin, TX. He was born in Quanah, TX on January 21, 1935 to Pauline and John Turner. He was the fourth of twelve siblings, nine sisters and two brothers. Gene's siblings recall him as a wonderful brother who was fun loving, mischievous and their Golden Boy.

A longtime resident of Austin, Gene graduated from Austin High School where he excelled as an athlete. He was a captain of the football team and competed as a boxer. He had the courageous heart of a fighter and earned the Golden Gloves for two years and developed a state wide reputation. He attended the University of Texas and was a lifelong fan of Longhorn football. He was a paradox between movie star good looks, and a tough personality that was admired by his loyal friends. He earned the nickname "Mean Gene in his Green Machine" as he drove the streets of Old Austin in his '51 Ford convertible.

He worked for many years as an ironworker and on construction sites. He supervised many landmark projects around the city including the LBJ library and was the co-owner of TP Construction for many years. He truly enjoyed mentoring many throughout his professional life. He enjoyed spending time with his friends and family at many of Austin venues including El Patio, Buddy's and Dirty's. He is described as a bitter enemy and a loyal friend. He was a loving son, brother, father, husband, uncle, grandfather and great-grandfather, and will be missed by many friends and family members across Central Texas.

He is preceded in death by his son, Miles Bennett Turner, his parents Pauline and John Turner, his brother John Jr., and sisters Betty Jean, Mayzell, Patricia, and Myrtis Ann.

He is survived by his sons and daughters-in-law: Marc and Carol Turner of Round Rock, TX and Michael and Dawn Turner of Austin, TX, with their mother Sarah Malone Turner. He is also survived by his grandsons Mav Turner, Matthew Turner and Brady Turner, all of Austin, TX; granddaughter-in-law Katie Turner, granddaughter and grandson-in-law Sarah Turner Bickel and Oliver Bickel, and great-granddaughter Kaitlyn Bickel; and his siblings Dorothy, Frances, Cynthia, Clifton, Sherry, and Paula.

A visitation will be held at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home on Sunday, January 5, 2014 at 4:00pm. A graveside service will be held on Monday, January 6, 2014 at 1:00pm at Austin Memorial Park Cemetery.