Michael "Black" Turner Jr., age 39, of Naytahwaush, MN, died unexpectedly on Monday, March 15, 2021, in Minneapolis, MN.

Michael Turner Jr. was born on May 19, 1981, to Michael and Carol (Wadena) Turner in Detroit Lakes, MN. As a child, he attended elementary school in Naytahwaush and later Mahnomen High School.  He then joined the workforce and began training to be a firefighter. Black spent many years traveling around the United States and throughout Canada as a wildland firefighter for the B.I.A. After returning home, he became a blackjack dealer at the Shooting Star Casino in Mahnomen, MN. Michael's greatest blessing in life was becoming a father to his son, Michael Turner III.

Black was always full of life, making friends wherever he went. He would often joke around with his loved ones just to ensure they were smiling and laughing. Michael always cherished time spent with his lifelong friends, family and his son. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Michael was survived by his son, Michael; his mother, Carol Turner of Naytahwaush; brothers, Timothy (Shantell) Turner of Naytaywaush, and Eric (Anne) Turner of Moorhead, MN; aunt and uncles: Bruce Turner, Terence Turner, Patricia Turner, Lynette Straub, Doreen Knutson, Sherry Nielsen and Alrick Wadena Jr.; and his nieces and nephews: Deion, Timothy Jr., Cameron and Jayden. He was preceded in death by his father, Michael Turner Sr; and his grandparents, Thomas, Lucille, Alrick Sr., Doris and Lee.

A Funeral Service will be held Friday, March 19, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. at the Naytahwaush Sports Complex.  Visitation will take place one-hour prior to the service. Burial will be in the St. Anne's Catholic Cemetery in Naytahwaush.

Following all Covid-19 safety protocols, social distancing will be practiced, and all must wear a mask to participate.