Following Tom Turner’s death from cancer in 2006, his friends and family decided to honor his life by organizing a yearly event that would help raise money for cancer research in his memory.

Tom enjoyed the peacefulness of riding his motorcycle with friends and family, rather it was across town or across the country. In 2007 when it came to organize a yearly fundraiser for cancer research in Tom’s memory nothing seemed more appropriate than holding an annual “Tom Turners Ride for Research.”

Not only was Tom a successful publisher, and motorcycle enthusiast, Tom was also a U.S Naval Veteran, and was very passionate about supporting the men and women who serve in the military.

Tom was only one of many members of the Turner family to serve his country.

His father, Thomas Alfred Turner, Sr. served in the U.S. Marines, his mother, Dorothy Ann Sabin-Turner was a U.S. Navy nurse. Two of his uncles, Kenneth and Carl Turner served in the marines as did three of Tom’s nephews, Steven Franke, Michael Harms and Derrick Harms. Toms niece Kristen Franke is currently serving in the U.S. Air Force.

“This year’s ride is being held on Armed Forces Day as a way to salute the freedom this country enjoys thanks to all the men and women who are currently serving in the military and all those who have served in the past,” the Turner family said. “This family has a history of serving in the military and are very proud of it. Patriotism runs deep with us and we want this ride to be representative of all they do to keep our country safe and to represent the love of country that was so important to Tom.”

As part of this year’s event, Ride for Research will donate $500 to the American Legion Zack Wheat Post 624 in Sunrise Beach.

The Zack Wheat Post offers vital services to past and present members of the military and their families who live in the Lake Area. To learn more about the American Legion Zack Wheat Post 624, or to make a contribution to one of its charitable programs call 573-374-6091.

The Turner family would like to invite everyone who loved Tom, who would like to support cancer research, our veterans, and the men and women who are currently serving in the military to join us at this year’s Tom Turner Ride for Research.

Since 2007, Tom Turners “Ride For Research” has raised nearly $35,000 in his memory towards funding research for the cure for cancer.