Frank and Marlene Turk tragically pass away from carbon monoxide poisoning

Renca Dunn, Daily Moth Reporter: We want to give an quick and tragic news of something that just happened — Frank Turk, who was 95 and a well-known Deaf person in the Deaf community, and his wife, Marlene Turk, who just became 89, and their dog, Jenny, passed away yesterday (March 13) due to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Frank Jr., who is Frank Turk’s son, shared information directly with us on what happened. On March 12, the couple arrived home and went into the kitchen and put their vehicle’s key fob on the kitchen counter. They forgot to turn off the vehicle. The engine ran all night and the Turks didn’t realize it and went to bed. The next morning, Marlene was supposed to meet up with her friends for her birthday celebration, but she didn’t show up. One of her friends decided to check on them yesterday evening. The friend discovered that the Turks and their dog were deceased. It was 5:45 p.m.

Frank Turk was very involved with the Deaf community for many years. He worked extensively in Deaf youth leadership. He graduated from the Minnesota State Academy for the Deaf and then went to Gallaudet for his Bachelors degree. He then attended the University of Maryland for his Masters and finally to American University for his EdD degree. Turk is the co-founder of the Youth Leadership Camp. He was formally the president of the South Dakota Deaf School. He was a former director of the North Carolina Division of Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. He was the Dean of Boys at Gallaudet University. There is so much that Frank Turk was involved in, the list goes on.

Marlene graduated from the Iowa School for the Deaf. She was also very involved with Nebraska School for the Deaf and the Nebraska Association of the Deaf. She was very supportive of Deaf children and Deaf people in the Midwest. Marlene was a strong supporter of Frank Turk’s work. Both gave their love and their time to the Deaf community.

Frank Turk wrote a book, “From Oaks to Acorns.” You can find his book online.

Frank Jr. wanted to share with you all that he is deeply grateful to the Deaf community for your love and outpouring of support for the Turks. He said he truly treasures the Deaf community.

Frank Jr. also said he would keep us posted for a celebration of life event, on when, where, and what time it is. I will share when information is available so we can all connect one way or another.

We at The Daily Moth send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Frank and Marlene who are deeply affected by their passing. They are truly legacies in the Deaf community and we will always remember their stories that are passed down through us. Once I get more information and other updates, we’ll keep you posted.

Clarification: Marlene’s birthday was on March 1, and the birthday gathering was to celebrate it.