CHARLES VERNON

Charles 'Chuck' Vernon World Turner, a member of the Hunkpati & Ihanktonwan Dakota, passed away July 9th, 2024, near his residence in Wagner. Born on January 16th, 1963, in Yankton, to Mildred Jones and Kenneth World Turner Sr., Chuck spent his formative years in Fort Thompson and received his education at Crow Creek Tribal Schools. He exhibited a fervent interest in basketball, contributing to the success of the Chieftains in achieving state championships. Subsequently, he pursued further studies at Haskell Indian Nations University.

Chuck faced many adversities in life, but his encounter with Kandi World Turner, whom he married in 2001, infused new optimism and purpose into his life. An avid animal enthusiast, particularly with a fondness for horses, Chuck was known to cherish childhood equestrian pursuits and later engage in the Dakota 38+2 rides for a period of four years, an endeavor involving horseback travel from Lower Brule to Mankato, Minnesota, aimed at honoring their forebears.

Being not only a man of action but also of art, Chuck displayed a deep-seated passion for the intricate craft of beading, demonstrating remarkable patience and proficiency, which garnered widespread admiration. His profound regard for his heritage was evident in his active involvement in traditional pow-wows, where he showcased his expertise in indigenous dance forms.

Chuck's love for his family was unwavering, evident in his adult life spent with his beloved wife, Kandi, on the Yankton Sioux Reservation. His legacy lives on through his two daughters, Meliah and Kiari, his son, Spencer, and his grandchildren, Mikayla and Ray'nan. His memory is cherished by those he leaves behind, including his late father, Kenneth, his mother, Mildred, and his sister, Mona.

Funeral services were held at the White Swan Community Center in Lake Andes on Monday, July 15th. Burial was held at the St. Paul’s Catholic Cemetery in Marty. Peters Funeral Home in Wagner was in charge of arrangements.