Michael "Jasper" Turner Sr., age 58, of Naytahwaush, Minnesota died Thursday, January 13, 2011 at his home, under the care of Hospice of the Red River Valley.

Michael Wayne Turner, the son of Thomas and Lucille (Bellanger) Turner, was born on July 1, 1952 in White Earth, Minnesota. As a young child, he moved with his family to Minneapolis, Minnesota for a short time before returning to northern Minnesota. They lived in the Naytahwaush area where Michael attended school. In 1974, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving in Korea. After his honorable discharge, he returned to Naytahwaush and shortly thereafter met the love of his life, Carol Wadena. Michael and Carol were united in marriage in 1981 and were blessed with three sons. Michael attended carpentry school then began painting homes in the area. He furthered his education by obtaining his degree as a Fishery Technician. Michael worked with the White Earth Natural Resources Department for many years. Over the years, Michael also spent time leeching, harvesting wild rice, and raising dogs. He plowed snow for the elders for several years. Most recently, he was employed at the Shooting Star Casino as a blackjack/poker dealer until his health prevented him from working.

Michael enjoyed being outdoors and was often found hunting, fishing, or trapping. He played softball and was an avid golfer. Michael's true passion was playing Poker! He played at the casino, with family and friends, and even on the computer, it was one of his many great joys.

Michael is survived by the love of his life, Carol, of Naytahwaush; three sons: Michael Jr. (Alicia), Timothy (Cassandra), and Eric (Brittany), all of Naytahwaush; his mother, Lucille Turner of Naytahwaush; two brothers, Bruce (Darla) and Terrance, both of Naytahwaush; a sister, Patricia Turner of Naytahwaush; and four grandsons: Timothy Jr., Deion, Cameron, and Jayden.

He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas; maternal grandparents, Steve and Nellie Bellanger; paternal grandparents, Robert and Charlotte Turner; numerous aunts and uncles; and a dear friend, Richard Bunker.
Funeral Services were held on Monday, January 17, 2011 at 11 am at the Sports Complex in Naytahwaush. Reverend Doyle Turner officiated. Tricia Simon, Bruce Engebretson and Sonny & Earl McDougall provided the special music. Pallbearers were Kevin Afflater, Robert Folstrom, Jeffrey Wark, Kenneth Coleman Jr., Tim LaFriniere, Ray Londo, Chad Guinn and Corvin Londo. Honorary pallbearers were Elliot Knutson, Alrick Wadena Jr., Arden Laine, Merlin McDougall, Alfred Roske, Glen Bucholz, Jerry Bentley and Shooting Star Casino Poker/Blackjack Staff. Military honors were provided by MNARNG Honor Guard. Visitation began at 6 pm on Sunday, January 16, 2011 with a prayer service at 7 pm and continued until time of the service on Monday, all at the Sports Complex.