DODGE CITY – Gary L. Turner, 76, passed away Sunday, June 29, 2025 at his home in Dodge City.

He was born November 16, 1948, in Smith Center, Kansas, the son of Eugene "Olie" and Thelma (Sheets) Crawford. Gary graduated from Smith Center High School and later earned his Business Administration degree from Fort Hays State University. In 1970, Gary moved to Dodge City, where he began what would become nearly 50 years as the manager of the Village Square Mall.

Gary was the owner of Cattleman's Lounge, a place he deeply loved—not just for the business, but for the friends and memories he made there. But Gary's greatest pride and purpose in life was raising his two sons, Mike and Matt. He believed deeply in raising his boys the right way — with accountability, respect, and a strong work ethic. His love of sports, especially baseball, wasn't just a hobby — it was a way of life. He spent countless hours coaching his sons and all their friends, developing lasting relationships and serving as a father figure to many.

He had a lifelong passion for the Kansas City Royals and enjoyed any chance he could get to see them in person. Royals Stadium was where the family spent summer vacations every year, and wouldn't have had it any other way. Gary was also a man of second chances, generosity, and quiet strength — someone people counted on, even when they didn't deserve it. Gary lived life without regret.

He is survived by two sons, Mike Turner and wife Julie of Bixby, Oklahoma, and Matt Turner and wife Diana of Dodge City; his companion, Mary Racette of Dodge City; two sisters, Betty Bretz and husband Don of Lake Wabaunsee, Kansas, and Pat Hubl and husband John of Nebraska City, Nebraska; and his seven beloved grandchildren: Lauren, Katie, David, Daniel, Matthew, Faith, and Savannah. Gary is also survived by Jean Underwood, the mother of his two sons.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Bert Turner.

Memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm Monday, July 7, 2025 at the Dodge City Church of the Nazarene with Jeff Hiers officiating. Visitation will be Sunday, July 6, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm with the family present at Ziegler Funeral Chapel. The casket will remain closed per Gary's wishes.  Cremation will follow the visitation

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to Hospice of the Prairie in care of Ziegler Funeral Chapel, 1901 N. 14th Ave., Dodge City, Kansas 67801.