April 30, 2019

Wilfrid Laurier University mourns the passing of Francis “Frank” Turner, a distinguished professor and former dean of the Faculty of Social Work.

Turner died in Toronto on April 27. He was 90 years old.

Turner began his education at the University of Western Ontario where he received his BA in Philosophy and Theology. He completed a second bachelor's degree, followed by a master's degree in Social Work, at the University of Ottawa before earning a Doctorate of Social Work at Columbia University in New York.

Turner enjoyed a distinguished academic career. While at Laurier, he was Dean of the School of Social Work three times and also served as the vice-president: Academic. Turner also held senior administrative roles at other Canadian universities. He was the inaugural chair of the School of Social Work at Memorial University, the chair of the School of Social Work at York University and the executive vice president of Laurentian University in Sudbury.

Turner was a dedicated professor, teaching at prestigious institutions including Oxford, Columbia and Case Western Reserve. He also lectured internationally in Israel, Brazil, Japan, Hong Kong, Australia, France and Spain. Turner published 27 books, wrote numerous articles and served as editor of the International Journal of Social Work. In 1992, he was presented the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada Medal for his contributions to the nation.

Turner’s family will receive friends at the Humphrey Funeral Home A.W. Miles - Newbigging Chapel, 1403 Bayview Ave. from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, May 3. A mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday, May 4 at noon at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 24 Cheritan Ave. in Toronto.

Contributions in Turner’s memory may be made to the Catholic Children's Aid Society, Grace Hospital or Covenant House. Condolences can be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.