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Don Turner, Former Vermont House Minority Leader, Passes Away at 60
MILTON—Don Turner, a dedicated public servant and former minority leader of the Vermont House, passed away on Saturday after a brief illness, at the age of 60. He succumbed to glioblastoma, a serious form of brain cancer, at the McClure Miller Respite House in Colchester, surrounded by family, as confirmed by his obituary.
A lifelong resident of Milton, Turner’s public service career began in his teenage years when he joined the town’s fire department at just 16 years old, later becoming its chief for 14 years. Apart from his role in public safety, he was a real estate broker and housing developer.
“Mr. Milton himself,” as described by Milton Selectboard Chair Darren Adams, Turner was known for his commitment to the community and his versatile contributions. Appointed to the Vermont House in 2006 by then-Governor Jim Douglas, Turner represented his constituents for 14 years, serving as the Republican minority leader for eight of those years. In 2018, he ran for the position of lieutenant governor but was defeated by Progressive/Democratic candidate David Zuckerman.
Former Governor Douglas fondly remembered Turner as “a great leader” who garnered respect and affection in the community, underscoring the qualities essential to an effective legislator and public servant.
Turner’s influence in Vermont politics and his unwavering dedication to Milton have left a lasting legacy. Community members and colleagues are mourning his loss while remembering his significant contributions to local governance and public service. This story will be updated as further details emerge.
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Photo credit vtdigger.org
