Mark Kern Turner

Mark Kern Turner, age 68, left his home that he considered "heaven on earth" on March 28, 2021.  Mark was a kind, loving husband. He leaves behind his wife and best friend Paula Phelps Turner along with his two loved stepchildren Kendee Blake Ruark (Doug) and Thomas Blake. Grandpa Mark also leaves behind his two sweet granddaughters Harper and Skylar Ruark.

Mark was born in Lawrence, Kansas to Bill and Phyllis Turner on January 13, 1953. His family moved to Raleigh when he was 14, where he grew up with his brothers Alan, Richard and Keith.

Mark loved the ocean and moved to Wilmington in 1974 to study marine biology, surf and live by the sea.  He eventually started working in construction which led him to getting his General Contractors license and incorporating Mark Turner Builders.   Mark was a talented, successful builder. He built many homes and commercial buildings in the Wilmington area.  

Mark was known for being a “hands-on” builder and always the hardest worker on his jobs.  He could build a house single handedly from the foundation to the roof and had done so on occasion. His family and friends will greatly miss his knowledge and ability to fix or figure out anything. 

Mark was a strong, smart, honest, hardworking man with a gentle, quiet disposition.  He and Paula loved traveling in their RV and had many fun times “camping” with Wilmington friends and those they met from all over the country. When not building or traveling Mark loved to spend his time reading, watching his beloved Carolina Panthers, or playing golf with his buddies.

He was the love of Paula’s life. They retired together 18 years ago and were devoted partners and companions. With his talent he built them many beautiful homes on Wrightsville Beach and in Wilmington.  He always said, “Sweetheart I just want to make you happy” and he did just that for Paula.

Due to COVID considerations a celebration of Mark’s life will be held at a later date.  Donations in Mark’s name can be mailed to The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue, 302 Tortuga Lane, Surf City, NC 28445 or the Duke Cancer Institute.

Share condolences online with the family, here, in the guestbook.