DEANNE TURNER

Deanne J.E. (Clough) (Wilz) Turner

Our much-loved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and aunt passed away peacefully in her sleep on October 13, 2023.

Mom was born Deene Janis to Art and Liz Clough on March 1, 1934. She was the fifth of twelve children. Preceding her in death were Eilleen Dufrane, Millie Johnson, Archie Clough, and Leah Sokel. Surviving siblings are brothers' Hazen Clough, Herschel (Cathe) Clough, Darrell (Betty) Clough, and Lynn (Barb) Clough. Her sisters are Beth Robinson, Kathy (Dale) Peterson, Mary Sayner, and one sister-in-law Helen Heiss.

On June 2, 1956, mom married John Wilz. Together they had seven children. They are Lori (Larry) McIlhone, Pam (Randy) Ruffing, Patrick (Barb) Wilz, Kevin (Susie) Wilz, Beth Wilz, Derrick (Lauri) Wilz, and Mike (Anna) Wilz. She was blessed with 10 grandkids, 12 great-grandkids and six others who called her grandma. Mom loved every one of us whether near or far, was very proud of all, and was always ready to lend an ear or offer support when needed. She had an insanely busy phone line.

Mom was primarily a homemaker, but she did have several part-time jobs including working for Verna at Lakeroad Lanes, doing food demos at the grocery stores and lastly K.C. where she made many good friends.

On March 10, 1976, mom married James “Chick” Turner. After 45 years of marriage, he preceded her in death on August 31, 2021. Mom and Chick lived in Richmond, VA where she learned how to drive and Aston, PA. Many happy times were spent at the Jersey Shore. In 1992 they returned to Neenah, but her travelling days just started. Some trips were N.Y.C., Denver, San Diego, San Fransisco, New Orleans, Mexico, and Aruba. Her favorite destination was Navarre Beach, FL. Along with different kids she visited there often, and we celebrated her 75th birthday at the beach.

Some of mom's favorite times were birthday parties, back-yard get-togethers, Packer parties, and holidays, especially Christmas. Boy, did she love Christmas. At last count there were 7 trees all decked out and gifts for everyone. Her egg nogg was a big hit (the stronger the better). Cookies, fudge and homemade caramels were all gobbled up.

We can't forget the card playing years. Sheephead at Grandma and Grampa Cloughs- spades with kids and grandkids, black jacks at the casino, and of course cribbage. SO MUCH CRIBBAGE! She taught us all, even the great-grandkids, and we spent countless hours playing at her house. Mom joined a league the last ten years and enjoyed tournaments in Winchester.

Lastly, mom was a music lover. Singing “Bye O, Bye O” to the little ones, dancing to Band Stand and her albums on Tyler St., enjoying various artists with Chick in Atlantic City, or just listening to C.D.'s at home. The last music video she watched was Niel Diamond at Mike & Anna's. “So Good! So Good! So Good”.

On that note, a huge thank you to Mike and Anna for opening up their home to mom (and all her visitors) these past few weeks, and the care they offered. Thank you to all who called, visited, and helped out.

Mom did not want a funeral service. She preferred a going away party (her words) to be held at The Dome, 1338 S Commercial St, Neenah, WI 54956, on November 26th from 1 pm to 4 pm. 

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to St. Jude's or Susan Komen Breast Cancer, 

Mom, we will all miss you forever. Thanks for the memories.