Ryan James Turner Obituary (1983 - 2018)

After an intense battle with cancer, Ryan James Turner of South Jordan, Utah returned home to his Savior on February 25, 2018 at the age of 34. He leaves behind his loving wife, Ana Patrícia; his daughter, Esther; his parents, Timothy Turner and Marla Jones; and his brothers, Darrell and Travis Turner. He was preceded in death by his son, Samuel Moreira Turner, who died in infancy. Ryan was born on November 4, 1983 in Simi Valley, CA. Ryan served a faithful mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Australia Adelaide Mission, and had a great love for the people there. One of Ryan’s greatest passions in life was education which he pursued to the fullest. After completing his mission he graduated from the University of Virginia with a BS as an Electrical Engineering triple major. He was immediately accepted into an Engineering and Public Policy PhD program shared between Carnegie Mellon (in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) and the University of Lisbon (Portugal), where he learned Portuguese and met the love of his life, Ana Patrícia. They were sealed for time and all eternity in the Madrid Temple. While living in Pittsburgh, Ryan and Ana Patrícia served together in the Columbus Ohio Temple, and taught Book of Mormon classes. They found great fulfillment in serving with one another. After completing his PhD they moved to Salt Lake City where Ryan worked for the LDS Church. Ryan and Ana Patrícia had the great privilege to serve together as ordinance workers in the Salt Lake Temple until the birth of their daughter, Esther, who turned two the day Ryan passed away. Being a father to sweet little Esther was the most wonderful work of his life, and she lit up even his darkest of days as he bravely battled cancer. Ryan loved serving and being around people and everyone loved him in return. He was a true disciple of his Savior and exemplified Christ-like love—always ready to help others, and to spread the good news of the gospel. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 3, 2018 at 3:00 pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at 4842 Vermillion Dr, South Jordan, UT 84009. There will be viewings on Friday, March 2 from 6-8pm and the next day from 1:30-2.45pm before the funeral services at the church. We invite you to write one or more memories of Ryan, for little Esther at www.jenkins-soffe.com. In Lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation set up in Ryan's honor here: https://www.gofundme.com/support-the-turners