Craig J. Turner

Craig Jeffrey Turner
January 30, 1947 – December 28, 2025

Craig J. Turner of Genesee Depot passed away peacefully on December 28, 2025, with his daughter by his side. His family, friends, and colleagues were deeply saddened to learn of his passing. Craig has now joined his beloved wife of 53 years, Charlotte Turner (Gourdoux), the love of his life and constant partner. He will be profoundly missed by his daughter, Jennifer Washburn of Hartland, and cherished granddaughters Lindsey and Addison Washburn (Chris).

Craig was born on January 30, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late Angus and Clare Turner (Stasko). The family later moved to Eagle, Wisconsin, where Craig was raised and attended Mukwonago High School. He was the devoted big brother to Laurie Turner (Bill Radey), Nancy Plastina, and Chris Turner (Kim).

In 1966, Craig met Charlotte Gourdoux, who became the steady presence at the center of his life. They were married in May of 1971. Soon after, they purchased a home in Genesee Depot, where they became part of the close-knit and charming community.

Craig will be dearly missed by his loving sisters and brother, Charlotte’s siblings, in-laws, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Craig proudly served his country as a United States Marine from 1967 to 1971, completing two tours in Vietnam. Upon returning home, he continued a life of service as a deputy for the Waukesha County Sheriff’s Department. Craig later transitioned into the firearms industry, serving as a regional sales manager for Smith & Wesson, Glock, and Beretta. Through decades of work travel, Craig built lasting relationships with law enforcement agencies across the country. He also served as Illinois Superintendent of Security Police for the Department of Central Management Services.

A respected firearms instructor, teacher, and mentor, Craig dedicated much of his life to training others. He later served for 20 years as Captain of the Reserves for the Village of Mukwonago Police Department, a role he took great pride in.

Craig was known for his quick wit, dry humor, and stoic, strong exterior—-but to his daughter and those closest to him, he was a big teddy bear. A lifelong lover of dogs, animals seemed naturally drawn to him. Craig was an avid reader and collector of books and dreamed of having his own library so he could share his knowledge and literary works with others. His understanding of history, military operations, politics, firearms, and world events was vast and deeply respected.

Craig formed lifelong friendships, some spanning more than 70 years. He was a familiar face at the gun range each week and actively participated in local and regional competitive and western shooting events. He will be deeply missed by those he proudly called brother, partner, comrade, and friend.

Reunited once again with Charlotte, Craig leaves behind a legacy of love, protection, service, and devotion.
Rest in peace, Sheep Dog.

Gathering at St. Paul Catholic Church, S38 W31602 Wern Way, Waukesha, Wisconsin, on Friday, January 30, 2026 at 9:30 AM. Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM.

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