Mark TURNER Obituary

I was grieved to find out about Mark's passing too late to make the service. I only knew Mark professionally however I was aware of the difference that he made in so many lives. The respect that he held from the athletes he coached spoke volumes. Mark was a true champion of a human that inspired many. May his encouraging message in health and fitness carry on.

When I had an anxiety attack, I went outside so people would not see me (Dinner Dance) & Mark came outside to see me, I said to him something like "Go inside, have a good time (Or something like that) & he said to me "I don't care about that... I care about you" And that was him, He was a You are more important than me person. Thereafter he rang me to see if I was ok. Last night I Dreamt that we were both at training & I went up to him & said I'm so sorry, which he replied " That's all right. Don't worry about it

Thank you for the invitation to watch Mark's service. I first met Mark in Holten at a European Junior Cup race, he hadn't long taken the job in Scotland and we were both part of the coaching team supporting the athletes. We had some great chats over coffee and it was apparent that we shared some ideals & philosophies. We kept in contact after Mark returned home to Australia & after the family move to NZ. Like all of us I wish I had spent more time with him. My thoughts are with all touched by his death but we can share our stories of how he made us laugh and the smiles he gave us. Scott

My enduring memory of Mark is the first time we meet. I signed up to a beginner's running group with Mark and Suz. I had never run before and was super unfit but I really wanted to be able to run 5 km. Mark believed in me right from that first meeting. He ran beside me and encouraged me as I ran in 1 minute bursts followed by 3 minute walks.
Eventually I was able to compete in a 10km run. That was 2x more than I ever thought possible. His belief in me will stay with me always. He cared about everyone, no matter where we were in our journey.
I'm pulling those running shoe's back out of the cupboard Mark.
Thank you for giving me the gift of running X

I remember running through Noosa National Park with Mark and him running at snail pace to keep up with me. He was telling me how it was one of his most favourite places to run and he was really appreciating the nature around us. It really was spectacular and a lovely run chatting together. That's the memory I will hold dear. May you run free forever Mark. You have changed so many lives and will be sorely missed.

Very sad to hear this news. Fond memories with Mark with our connection with the AFL and the 500km road relay. Condolences to Mark family.

Vale Mark. You were passionate about getting the best out of your athletes and I appreciated this about you. You will be missed.

I never met Mark but I was on his mailing list and we communicated directly a few times. Even this small contact enriched my life and I am so sorry for everyone who loved him. Thinking of you all

Sad news, was lucky to umpire with Mark on my few trips to the Gabba.
R.I.P.
Gavin Dore

Condolences to Marks family. Work with Mark in the Qld Police PSRT. He set the standard for fitness and was a quiet achiever that was well respected. RIP Mark.

My sincere condolences. Although I had lost contact with Mark over the years I fondly remember our time at the Police Academy together and his regular efforts breaking the sporting records. A thorough gentleman and nice guy. My thoughts are with him and family. Vale.

RIP Mark....

From a former PSRT (Public Safety Response Team - QPS) founding member 1994.

Fraz

Mark was a mate of mine I met through the Queensland Police Service and was in my squad during the Police Academy days at Oxley in 1991. Towards the end of our 10 months of training we had to select where we wanted to work. To stay close to family, Mark's 3 options for placements in his first year were North Brisbane, South Brisbane and Sunshine Coast. A few weeks later all 370+ newbys recruits nearing the end of our training were summoned into the Academy gym hall to be told our First Year Constable placements - the start of our futures! Mark, Eric Woody and I were sitting together as they started with the A's and progressed with wave after wave of disappointing news. When the selectors got down about 300 names (literally) to the T's, it was announced Mark was going to Mareeba (an extremely far cry from South East Queensland). As this registered, Mark let out an audible cry, knowing he was heading into the unknown seemingly alone. A consolation was Eric 'Woody' was later told he got Cairns, so as mates they got to car pool up in Eric's Telstar and worked together as First Year Constables in Far North Queensland together.

Mark was a truly great guy with a steely determination, which I'm sure is why he was such a brilliant long distance runner, among many other things he excelled in life. This is extremely sad news. RIP Mate. It truly was a pleasure knowing you as a good friend so many years ago.

Friends always,
Roly and Debbie Watkin, Brisbane.

I´m so very sorry for your loss

My heart goes out to you all over your loss. Big hug Suzanne, Finn and Charlie.