To most he was Colonel Rick "Bino" Turner, to us he was Uncle Rick. Our family lost the bravest man we have ever know last Sunday. A true American hero who loved his country, family and animals of all kinds

Richard (Rick) Daryl Turner, 64, received his heavenly wings on Sunday, March 10, 2024, following a 4-year, service related, battle with Lewy Body Dementia. Rick was born on August 23, 1959, in Willard, Ohio, to Reuben and Barbara Turner. He graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado in 1982.

Colonel Rick "Bino" Turner (Ret.) spent his Air Force career flying his beloved A-10 Thunderbolt II, more affectionately known as the "Warthog". Highlights of his career as an exemplary Officer and legendary fighter pilot include graduating from the prestigious United States Air Force Fighter Weapons School, flying combat missions with the 511th Fighter Squadron during Operation DESERT STORM, and earning the highly coveted opportunity to command the 75th Fighter Squadron "Tigersharks", an historic fighter squadron tracing their lineage to the original "Flying Tigers" of World War II fame. During "Bino's" tenure as "Shark 1", the Tigersharks supported Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, flying close air support missions from Bagram Airbase, Afghanistan, and in what would represent the capstone to Bino's distinguished combat career, he led the Tigersharks during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, flying close air support missions from both Al Jaber Airbase, Kuwait, and USCENTAF's forward operating location at Tallil Airbase, Iraq.

Rick was a fearless warrior and earned numerous awards and decorations during his 25-year active-duty career; however, you'd never know based on his quiet, unassuming, and humble demeanor. Most notable are the Bronze Star, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with 9 Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Meritorious Unit Award the 75th Fighter Squadron earned under his Command.

In 2007, Rick retired from the Air Force while serving as the Commander of the 479th Training Group, and true-to-form, found his way back to the cockpit, concluding a 40-year flying career with 13-years as a Southwest Airlines pilot.

He was predeceased by his father, Reuben Turner.

His wife of 37 years, Elizabeth, his daughters, Mary Beth and Emma, his mother Barbara Turner, sister Sherry Szczepanski, niece, Sarah Szczepanski and nephew, Scott Szczepanski survive him.

Rick's Service, with full military honors, will be held at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or the charity of your choice.