Don D. Turner, "Coach D", 76, of Bella Vista, Arkansas, died peacefully at home April 18, 2007. He was born December 12, 1930 in Monmouth, Illinois to Ralph H. Turner and Ella Jebb Turner.

In his youth he broke and trained horses and gave riding lessons for the Turner Family horse business. He served in the Air Force from August 1948 to April 27, 1951, serving in the Reserves until 1955. He graduated from Monmouth College with a B.S. in 1956 and from Illinois State University with an M.A. in 1960.

He was an encourager, giving his life to teaching, coaching and mentoring players and students. Throughout his life he coached football, wrestling, track, baseball, taught English literature, health and P.E. He was Athletic Director and/or coach, and professor at colleges and universities including: Imperial Valley College, CA. Santa Barbara City College, University of California, Santa Barbara, United States International University, University of Minnesota, Morris, Bemidji State University, Eastern Oregon University, Chadron State University Nebraska, University of Dubuque, Iowa; Bethany College and professionally, the Birmingham England Bulls, winning the BAFA League Championship, and the Bellingham Washington Eagles semi professional league. He coached and taught at school districts in South Haven Michigan, Holtville California, Thermopolis Wyoming, Stanwood Washington and Belfair Washington.

He was a life member of the American Football Coaches Association, Who's Who, VFW, and numerous community and volunteer organizations.

He is survived by his wife of eighteen years, Louise Turner of Bella Vista, Arkansas; one brother, Wendell Turner and wife, Lila of Magnolia, Texas; two sons, Steve Turner, Greg Turner and wife, Krista of La Grande, Oregon; two step-sons, Bill Barrett of Springfield, Illinois, Brad Barrett and wife, Medilyn of Seattle, Washington; two step-daughters, Julie Kieffer and husband, Jim of Nevada, Iowa, Laura Becker of Dubuque, Iowa, and nine grandchildren.

There will be a Committal of the Cremated Remains in Monmouth Cemetery, Monmouth, Illinois on Friday, May 18, 2007 at 3:00 p.m. Arrangements are by the Bella Vista Funeral Home & Crematory, 2258 Forest Hills Blvd., Bella Vista, Arkansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Youth Program at The Bella Vista Community Church, 75 East Lancashire Blvd., Bella Vista, Arkansas 72714 or to the Athletic Program at Monmouth College, 700 East Broadway, Monmouth, Illinois 61462 or to the Washington Regional Hospice, 34 West Colt Square. Suite #1, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72703.