Donald Ward Turrentine

Donald Ward Turrentine, aged 90, passed away on June 25, 2026.

Don was born on August 19, 1935 in Kansas City, Missouri. He graduated from East High School in 1954, and then attended the University of Kansas City (now UMKC). He was an active member of Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE) fraternity. Don graduated in 1958 with a BBA in Business Administration. Later, he obtained a BA in Accounting from Walsh College in Troy, Michigan and a MS in Acquisition Management from Florida Tech University in Melbourne, Florida.

In October 1958, he married his college sweetheart, the former Gayle Elaine Gatts. Their wonderful romance lasted a lifetime. Don entered the U.S. Army in May 1958, and served three years active duty, including a 13 month tour in Korea. His civilian federal service career extended over 32 years as a contracting officer/contract manager with the U.S. Department of Defense. He achieved the official designation of Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM).

Upon retiring in 1996, he enjoyed volunteer work as a docent/tour guide at museums in the local area. After working at both the National Frontier Trails and the Truman Presidential Museums, he completed his volunteer service at the National World War I Museum in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. He had a lifelong interest in physical fitness, and was a dedicated member of the Element Sports Center in Lenexa, Kansas.

Don is survived by his wife Gayle, sons David (Sharon) and Mark (Suzanne), grandchildren Allyson, Jackson, and Jade, and great-grandson Parker. He is also survived by sisters Joyce (John) and Carol.

Don always lived by the motto "Each and every day, better in every way."