Donald Friel Turney

Don passed peacefully into the arms of his Lord and Savior at the age of 69 after a lifetime of health challenges, including kidney disease. He is now free from pain and rejoicing in his heavenly body. Throughout his life, his humor, faith, charm, and optimism were ever present even to his final breath.

Don was born on August 23, 1956, to Wilbur and Caroline Turney. He attended both North and Highland High School, where he excelled in football and baseball. He graduated from Highland in 1974 and continued his athletic career at Bakersfield College from 1975 to 1977. One of his proudest accomplishments was being part of the 1976 BC football team that won the Junior Rose Bowl Championship in Pasadena, CA. He later played football at Chico State then baseball at Biola University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in communication.

Don’s heart for helping others led him to earn a Master of Arts in Counseling and Student Services from CSU Fresno and a Master of Arts in Psychology from Pepperdine University. He worked for many years as a school counselor then as a counselor within the prison system. In 1995, he returned to Bakersfield College where he taught psychology and briefly served as Dean of Students. Don loved teaching, encouraging students, and helping them discover and develop their talents. His deep connection with students was evident in the multiple Teacher of the Year awards he received.

Outside the classroom, Don was a devoted fan of the Dodgers and the Rams. he also had a great love for music. In a story often shared among friends and family, his “career” as a wedding singer began when a college buddy overheard him singing in the BC locker room and promptly appointed him to sing at an upcoming wedding. From then on, Don became the vocalist for many weddings, often accompanied by his good friend Jack Gombos on guitar.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbur and Caroline Turney, and his sister, Katy Swanson. He is survived by his sister Sue Brittian; his sister Gail Smithson (Dennis); his brother-in-law Bob Swanson; many nieces, nephews, and their children; and countless friends and former students whom he cared for deeply.

The family would like to thank Dr. Sam and Samantha Ratnayake, Magnolia Place Assisted Living, and Bakersfield Community Healthcare for their compassionate care of Don. We are deeply grateful to the many healthcare workers who supported him during his hospital stays and dialysis treatments. Also, thank you to his good friends Gary Roggenstein, Mike Alexander, Dave Suderman, John Border, Pastor Mike Osthimer and many others who supported him with their faithful presence throughout the years.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Calvary Chapel (6501 Schirra Ct. Bakersfield, CA 93313) on Monday, March 30 at 1:00 p.m. In honor of Don’s love for the Dodgers and the Rams, guests are invited to wear team colors or something pink, his favorite shirt color. Flowers are appreciated or donations may be made to your favorite charity.

Fond memories of Donald Friel Turney and condolences may be shared on our web page for Funeraria Del angel Bakersfield Central

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/bakersfield-ca/donald-turney-12780712