Cortland Ernest Turner

Cortland Ernest Turner, a beloved father, veteran, brother, friend, and lifelong learner, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at the age of 79.  Born October 6, 1946, on the South Side of Chicago, IL, to Eugene and Dorothy (née Smith) Turner, Cortland was raised with a strong sense of independence, perseverance, and curiosity—qualities that would remain a defining part of who he was throughout his life.

Cortland graduated from Dunbar High School in 1964. Shortly thereafter, he answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Marine Corps in 1965. He proudly served from 1965 to 1967 as a Lance Corporal E-3 sniper in the special tactics and rescue unit (STAR) and was honorably discharged. During his service, he was awarded three Purple Hearts, a testament to his courage and sacrifice in service to his country.

Following his military service, Cortland continued his education at the DeVry Institute of Technology, attending from 1982 to 1984. He earned a diploma as an Electronic Technician in Computers and Applications, Instrumentation and Controls. His passion for technology and problem-solving would become an important part of his professional life.

In 1984, Cortland began his career with Nordson Corporation, where he worked as a Field Engineer until his retirement in 2008. He built a long and respected career through his technical knowledge, determination, and ability to continually learn and adapt.

Cortland was a man who never believed that learning should end. In retirement, he continued exploring new interests, developing new skills, and pursuing his entrepreneurial spirit. He created and operated several businesses, remaining active and independent until his passing.

Outside of work, Cortland found joy in the outdoors and in challenging himself to learn something new. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, archery, and exploring new hobbies. In his younger years, he and his best friend, Cleveland Hall, shared a passion for racing. Together, they started a racing team, building and racing go-karts—creating memories that reflected Cortland’s adventurous nature, creativity, and love of competition.

Cortland also took great pride in his health and fitness. He was dedicated to going to the gym and consistently woke up every morning at 5:00 a.m. to work out. His commitment to staying active reflected the discipline and determination that characterized so much of his life.

Above all, Cortland was a father who loved his children and took pride in the family he created. He was the proud father of Michael Turner, twins Jason (Wife Sonjay) and Janeen Turner, Erica Smith (Husband Corey), and Alexis Turner. His legacy will continue through his children, grandchildren Gregory, Steven (Wife Gabby), Jasmine (Husband David), Morgan, Lauren, Ashley, Myles, Peyton, Gavin and many family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. He is also survived by his cousins Paul, Daman and Jeannine.

Cortland will be remembered for his infectious smile, great sense of humor, kind and laid-back personality, independence, curiosity, and adventurous spirit. He was a man who lived life on his own terms, never stopped learning, and always found something new to explore.

His family takes comfort in knowing that he lived a full life marked by service, hard work, adventure, determination, and love. Though his passing was unexpected, the memories he created and the lessons he shared will remain with his loved ones forever.

Semper Fi, Dad.
You served your country with honor, lived your life with purpose, and left a legacy that will never be forgotten.

Rest peacefully. You will be deeply missed and forever loved. Until we see you again.

"Tell them I've gone fishing." ~ Cortland

Visitation will be 11:00am until funeral service with military honors at 12:00pm, Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Kahle-Moore Funeral Home, 403 Silver Lake Road, Cary, IL 60013.  Pr. David Meaux will be officiating.

To access the funeral service remotely, loved ones are encouraged to log on via Zoom (Meeting ID: 832 3785 5736, Password: 204796).

Interment will be private.

Final arrangements entrusted to Kahle-Moore Funeral Home. For more information, call 847-639-3817.

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