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John Turany “Captain John” passed away peacefully on July 16, 2026, at the age of 78.
Born on May 11, 1948, in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. John lived his life defined by service, kindness, and an unwavering love for his family and community.
A man of deep faith, John faithfully served as a Synodically Authorized Minister (SAM) in the Gulf Coast Conference of our synod, sharing God’s love through ministry, compassion, and service to others. One of his ministries was being able to baptize his beloved grandson River, a moment that held a special place in his heart and reflected the deep love he had for his family and faith.
John proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. Throughout his life, he was known for his warm smile, generous spirit, and ability to make everyone feel welcome. His genuine kindness left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
John devoted his professional life to the water he loved for 32 years working as a ferry boat captain before serving as the captain of the research vessel The Katy at the University of Texas Marine Science Institute. He played an important role in supporting marine science research. His knowledge, steady leadership, and dedication earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and students alike.
However, he found his greatest joy, bringing happiness to children by portraying Santa Claus for over 20 years in the Taft community. With his warm smile and kind heart, he delighted countless families during the Christmas season, creating cherished memories that will live on for years to come.
Above all, John was a devoted Husband to Judy, who he married on July 10, 1969. Their love and partnership were the foundation of a remarkable life together. He and Judy enjoyed traveling around the United States in their RV exploring new places. They also loved traveling by train, which Judy and John said was the only way to travel. Some of his happiest times were the family camping trips to the Guadalupe River where he and his children spent so much of their time in their growing up years, not to mention teaching his sons to hunt and all the hunting lease adventures, some of Perrie, Chad and Shane’s favorite memories.
John is preceded in the death by his parents, John & Johanna Turany, sisters: Margaret (husband Dale) Goulet, Mary Tetrick; brothers: Joe Turany, Frank Turany, and George Turany (wife Lois).
John is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Judy Mitchell Turany; daughter Perrie (husband David) Perron; sons: Chad (wife Stephanie) Turany, Shane (wife Kimberly) Turany; Grandchildren: Koethe Bourgeois; Kolton (wife Amanda) Bourgeois; Hunter (wife Landry) Murdoch; Tate (wife Kaitlyn) Turany; Jesse DeLobel; River Perron; Abigail Turany; Charlie (husband Lyndon) Phelps; Great Grandchildren: Kole Bourgeois; Addie Bourgeois; Rori Gros; Pierce Phelps and Baby Boy Murdoch. Brothers: Ron (wife Pat) Turany; Maynard (wife Marge) Turany; Sisters: Ceil Nelson; Barbara Weber; sister-in-law: Evelyn Turany; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other family members and friends.
Pallbearers as follows: Chad Turany, Shane Turany, Kolton Bourgeois, Hunter Murdoch, Tate Turany, Jesse DeLobel, River Perron
We remember John's family and friends in our prayers and trust that the promise of the Resurrection is true and sure.
In Christ,
Bishop Sue Briner
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