Neil W. Turner

Neil was born in Clearfield November 26, 1938 to the late Marvin and Lucille (Irwin) Turner.

He graduated from Clearfield High School in 1956 and Penn State University in 1961.

Neil is survived by his wife, Marcella (Elbell) Turner, having celebrated their 62nd anniversary this past March, two sons; Thane Turner (Rachel) and Trent Turner (Kerri), six grandchildren; Kylie, Karisa (Austin), Ellen (Ben), Avery, Caleb and Benjamin and a brother, Howard Turner (Carol).

He was preceded in death by his parents, two sons; Terry and Troy and his older brother, Roy.

Neil had three loves—The Lord, his family, and wrestling--in that order. He coached wrestling for 52 years and was still active at the time of his death. He started his coaching career in 1961 and his career took the following path: Altoona H.S., Steven’s Trade School, Asst. Clarion University, Athletes-In-Action, Clearfield H.S., Lock Haven University, and then to Messiah College where he retired from active teaching and coaching. During his retirement he coached Mat-Town U.S.A. Wrestling Club in Lock Haven, and finally came to Conestoga Valley H. S. in Lancaster where his son Trent is head coach.

He has been honored by numerous Wrestling Hall of Fames and he was very humbled by all the honors of his peers. In 1975, while coaching at Clearfield H.S., he was honored as the National High School Coach of the Year. In 2004, he was honored with the Lifetime Service to Wrestling award from the Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.

There will be no immediate funeral service except for a family gathering. A celebration of life memorial will be planned and held at a later time.

The Bennett and Houser Funeral Home, Inc. of Clearfield is in charge of the arrangements.

To send online tributes please go to www.bennettandhouser.com