Obituary
Howard Milton Turner (z”l), age 85, passed away in the company of family and friends on April 24, 2022.
Howard’s father Samuel (z”l), an obstetrician, and mother Sarah (z”l), a teacher, placed great value on education. They enrolled Howard as an early entrant to The University of Chicago where he earned his bachelor’s and law degrees and set the path for his younger brothers David and Robert (z”l). His wife of over 50 years Sandi (z”l), a committed teacher, played an important part in instilling love of learning in their children. Howard often joked that, as an attorney and the only non-doctor among his father, brothers, and children, he was the “black sheep” of his family while also noting that his great-grandfather was a judge in Ukraine.
Beyond family, Howard had two great passions: Judaism and the law. He approached both as a scholar and dedicated practitioner. Howard was an active member of North Suburban Synagogue Beth El, where he was a permanent fixture on Shabbat and, over almost 60 years, served as President, Trustee, and a member of nearly every committee. He conceived, funded, and nurtured the Ba'al Korei Institute, which teaches and promotes chanting of the Torah by teens and families, and took great joy in watching his three grandchildren chant Torah at their B’nai Mitzvah.
Howard’s 60-year legal practice focused on construction law. He was an original member of the Society of Illinois Construction Attorneys, whose membership is by invitation only, where he was known as the expert on Illinois Mechanics Lien law. He championed pro bono cases, generously gave advice to colleagues and opponents alike, authored many book chapters and continuing education articles, was an Adjunct Professor at the John Marshall Law School, and served on select committees that drafted amendments to Illinois Mechanics Lien Act. His greatest contribution to the law is his textbook “Turner on Illinois Mechanics Liens,” which is considered the authoritative source for Illinois mechanics lien law. Howard recently received a lifetime achievement award from the Illinois State Bar Association.
Howard is survived by his son Jerrold, daughter-in-law Judith Turner, granddaughters Hannah and Emily Turner, daughter Robin (Feinstein), son-in-law Benjamin Feinstein, grandson Jacob Feinstein, brother David, and dear friend Donna Becker.
Graveside service Tuesday, April 26, 2022, 12 PM at Westlawn Cemetery (Westlake Section), 7801 W. Montrose Ave., Norridge, IL. Memorials may be made in his memory to North Suburban Synagogue Beth El, 1175 Sheridan Road, Highland Park, IL 60035. To attend the funeral live stream, please visit www.cjfinfo.com. Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals - Skokie Chapel, 847.229.8822
Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals. www.chicagojewishfunerals.com