Clyde A. Turner

Clyde A. Turner, 90, of Whitefish, passed away Thursday, August 26, 2004, at the Lakeview Care Center in Bigfork of natural causes.

He was born March 17, 1914, in Great Falls, and was adopted by Clarence and Lulu Turner of Grass Range. He graduated from high school in 1931 and from Montana State University in 1937 with a degree in agriculture and agronomy. Clyde did post graduate work at the University of Montana with studies in range management and forestry. He was employed by the US Soil Conservation Service as Agronomist-Range-Conservation-ist and Soil Scientist. Clyde received an appointment with the Soil Conservation Service, (USDA). Clyde received a commission in the US Navy and served during World War II.

In 1948, in conjunction with Frank Fordik of Bigfork, they developed and started the first mechanical post peeler and penta treating process in Flathead Valley. In 1950 Clyde purchased the Boot Jack Ranch west of Whitefish and developed one of the top registered angus herds in Montana. He was president of the Western Montana Angus Association and a state director of that association.

He was politically active and served in the State House of Representatives for annual annual and one bi-annual session. After retiring from ranching, post and Christmas tree operations, he was active in land development and subdivisions. Other endeavors included the operation of a saw mill/resaw and planer at Coram with H.E. Van Allen. Clyde also served on the tax appeal board for 16 years.

Clyde will be remembered by his family and friends for his keen mind and creative ability. He was truly a mover/shaker who always paid his dues. His wit and knowledge will be missed by those who knew him best.

Clyde is survived by a daughter, Sandra Mitchell of Los Gatos, Calif. He married June Smithwick of Helena in 1939 and she preceded him in death.

Memorial services will be announced at a later date.