Ken Turner, a beloved figure in Portadown, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and community spirit.
Portadown: It’s a sad day for the community as Ken Turner, who was the Principal at Portadown College Preparatory Department for over 25 years, has passed away. He was a real fixture in the area.
Ken took charge back in 1964 and continued until he retired in 1990. He died peacefully at Craigavon Area Hospital on January 20. He was a loving husband to Sandra and a proud dad to Nigel and Stephen.
Ken was also a cherished granda to Megan, Ollie, Zoe, and Alfie. The Preparatory Department, which started in 1922, moved to its current location in 1947. After Ken retired, Mrs. Ruth McKinley took over until the department closed in 2006.
He was a real community hero, raising over £7,000 in 2020 with a sponsored walk around his neighborhood during the pandemic. Despite his mobility issues and Parkinson’s, he walked a kilometer for charity.
Ken was a big rugby fan and even refereed games for many years. The Portadown Rugby Football Club shared their condolences, calling him a “stalwart” and a lifelong member who will be missed by everyone at Chambers Park.
The South Ulster Community Band also paid tribute, highlighting all the ways Ken contributed over the years. They remembered visiting him at the nursing home during Christmas, where he enjoyed their carols.
Ken’s funeral will be private, but there will be a farewell party at Portadown Rugby Club soon. Instead of flowers, the family asks for donations to Parkinson’s UK (NI).
