Charlotte Ann Turner

Charlotte Ann Turner (Gourdoux), of Genesee Depot, passed away on December 16, 2023 at her home at the age of 74. Her loss was completely unexpected, and her family is profoundly saddened. She will be deeply missed by her husband, Craig Turner; her daughter, Jennifer Washburn (Chris) of Hartland; and her loving granddaughters, Lindsey and Addison Washburn. 

Charlotte was born on April 23, 1949. She grew up at Oak Slope — the family home in Genesee Depot — a home that her parents Val and Virginia Gourdoux built by hand. When Charlotte married the love of her life, Craig Turner, in May of 1971, they bought a house in the Depot not far from her childhood home. They knew that this was exactly where they wanted to raise their family. Charlotte was very proud to be a lifetime resident of this charming town, and she was always a passionate member of the community.

Charlotte often fondly referred to her childhood as an idyllic time in her life, and her siblings would concur. Tim (Tracy Leetz) Gourdoux of Elkhorn; Eileen (Francisco Mora) Gourdoux of Glendale; Mary Gourdoux of Zachary, LA; Kate Gourdoux Whelan of White Bear Lake, MN; Tom Gourdoux of Genesee Depot; John Gourdoux of Genesee Depot; and Cheri Jolivette of Tigard, OR will miss their sister dearly. Charlotte was a compassionate caregiver, and she played that role many times throughout her life. She also had an amazing memory and was the keeper of much family history. Charlotte will also be greatly missed by her nieces, nephews, brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, cousins, and friends.

Charlotte was an artist at heart. From a very young age, she was creative and imaginative, and she could look at things in her own, unique way. Charlotte was exposed to different types of art in school, and she embraced and developed that initial exposure throughout her life. Everything from her paintings, to designing landscapes, and dabbling in interior design — she had an eye for color and a desire to transform even ordinary things into beautiful art. 

Perhaps what Charlotte was best known for is her love of nature and gardening. She had a green thumb and a talent for creating beautiful gardens and potted arrangements. She would be absolutely giddy about the arrival of spring. Charlotte was very knowledgeable about horticulture and nurtured quite a variety of plants in her yard, often proudly pointing out those she had received from relatives and friends who also shared her passion. Charlotte’s love of gardening was a wonderful gift she passed on to others…it was her way of expressing love. 

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, April 5, with a visitation starting at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Funeral service to follow at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, corner of Hwy 83 and Hwy D in Genesee Depot. If you are able to attend, please wear a shade of her favorite color blue. Private family burial will follow at St. Paul’s Cemetery. 

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