SWANS ISLAND – Galen B. Turner, 55, died peacefully Nov. 1, 2011, at his home. He was born April 29, 1956, in Castine, son of Theodore A. “Buddy” and Geraldine (Haskell) Turner.
Galen resided on Swans Island his entire life as a proclaimed lobsterman and fisher of the sea. He loved being on the water in his fishing vessel, the Kathleen M, named after his beloved wife, Kathleen Colburn Turner. Galen proudly named himself as a “jack-of-all-trades, master of none,” as he had a wide variety of talents, such as boat building, carpentry and fixing old automobiles. Galen also loved music and was very fond of Saturdays. He was a historian of Swans Island history, a member of Fisherman’s Co-Op, and founder of Swans Island Lobster & Marine Museum, along with his brother, Theodore “Ted” Turner. As many would tell, he was a unique all around human being with a heart of gold.
Galen will be missed by many friends and family in his life: mother, Geraldine Haskell Turner; father, Theodore A. Turner; wife, Kathleen Colburn Turner; son, Galen A. and wife, Jennifer Lemoine Turner; daughter, Jenny M. Turner; grandson, Joshua B. Turner, brother, Theodore L. Turner and wife, Bonnie; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews and nieces, and many best friends.
A memorial service will be held in celebration of Galen’s life 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 5, at Millpond Park, Swans Island. Donations are welcome in Galen’s memory for future publication of his book about island history to Swans Island Lobster & Marine Museum, P.O. Box 374, Swans Island, ME 04685. Arrangements by Jordan-Fernald, 1139 Main St., Mount Desert. Condolences may be expressed at
www.jordanfernald.com.