Craig A. Turner

Craig A. Turner, of Narragansett, RI, passed away on Monday, June 24, 2024 at the age of 78. He was born September 4, 1945, in Worcester, MA, the son of George A. and Esther G. (Mooney) Turner. He was a graduate of Worcester’s South High School, Worcester Jr. College, and Northeastern University where he received both his Bachelors and Masters degrees.

He met Lucy Ann Olszta, of Dudley, MA, in 1967. She soon became his best friend and constant companion, and the love of his life. They were married in 1969. They lived in Auburn, MA, for many years. Craig summered in Galilee for the first 20 years of his life. before relocating to Narragansett after retiring in 2001.

He joined Norton Company in 1964, working in their Materials and Grinding Wheel Divisions before moving to their Industrial Ceramics Division in 1969, holding several Technical, Engineering and Managerial positions. He was a Patented Inventor.

His work took him to many domestic and international locations over the years, wherever Ceramics Industry manufacturing was located. His work also took him to Europe and the UK with occasional trips to the Far East. He was able to have Lucy Ann accompany him on several of these trips, creating many lasting friendships along the way.

He and Lucy Ann enjoyed many hobbies and activities together. Together with another couple they founded Corvettes United in Worcester in 1973. The club grew and was active for many years. They enjoyed boating around Narragansett Bay, and later returned to an earlier passion, motorcycle touring on their Harleys. He took up woodworking after retiring and gifted many of his works of unusual woods and oils.

His memberships included Morning Star Lodge, AF & AM; Aleppo Temple of Shriners; The American Ceramic Society; the NRA; the Harley Owners Group; the National Council of Corvette Clubs; and the National Hot Rod Association.

He was a die-hard Patriots fan since the birth of the “AFC” in 1960. Like so many others, he suffered with his home team as they staggered and stumbled and fumbled along until the team was purchased by the Kraft Group. Again, like so many others, he truly enjoyed the Kraft-Belichick-Brady era!

Craig and Lucy Ann did not have children, but they were pleased to support their many nieces and nephews as possible in their assorted activities while developing and growing into successful adults.

In addition to his beloved wife Lucy Ann, he is survived by his sister Judith Lysik and her husband Richard, his sister-in-law Anita Leporati, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, George and Esther, and also by brothers Bradman and Gary.