David Bruce Turchin passed away at home on April 6, 2025. His battle with cancer was fought with earnest but he is now at peace and without pain. Born December 10, 1959 to Robert and Florence Turchin, he grew up in the Lyndwood section of Hanover Township, Pa. and later resided in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. He graduated from Hanover High School and continued learning through various classes throughout his life.
A finishing carpenter by trade, Dave spent many years passionately honing his craft. While self-employed for many years, he worked for several companies later in his career, First General Services and Valley Woodcraft. He was a trusted and respected member of the team and enjoyed working as a union carpenter until he retired.
At his core, Dave was a creative and driven soul. He never settled too long on one hobby or endeavor before he mastered it and craved the challenge of new and more diverse skills. An artist and true craftsman, his visions and ideas constantly evolved and seeing them come to life was astounding. He dabbled in photography, glass work, woodworking, drawing, music appreciation, motorcycles, dance and so much more. He most recently taught himself to play the piano and, despite his self-doubt, was considerably skilled at it. He would strive for perfection and the results were always impressive.
Dave found great joy and comfort in the arts. His extensive and eclectic taste in music and art was intruging. He especially loved jazz and piano music, and enjoyed sharing his favorite musicians and composers. He was an early riser and enjoyed nothing more than some Frank Sinatra and the perfectly percolated cup of coffee on a rainy day. A lover of old movies and classic television shows, he probably couldn’t name a movie playing today but could discuss old westerns, vintage sci-fi or Dark Shadows until you felt the need to watch them all. His appreciation was admirable. He was always willing to share his knowledge and passion for so many things with those whom he loved and who loved him. We are forever grateful for his influence and guidance.
All of these traits made him an exceptional human; his heart made him an exceptional man. His family and friends remember him as the life of the room, as if gravity would draw you to him. We will all lovingly remember his smile and his laugh, and how often we enjoyed being around him.
Dave was a beloved brother to one brother, Andrew Turchin (wife Noreen), and three sisters, Suzanna Wolf (husband Matthew), Cathie Sikora (husband John) and Sally McDaniels (husband Mike). They will remember him most for his senses of humor and adventure, and willingness to always lend a helping hand. He was always there when he was needed most by his family and friends. He shared many great times with his five nieces and nephews, Tracy Wolf, Stephanie Sullivan, Jonathan Sikora, and James and Megan Ziller. He is so fondly remembered for magic carpet rides around the kitchen table, water balloon fights on a hot summer day, carving pumpkins with power tools, Christmas caroling in the neighborhood and being the ultimate concert buddy.
In his later years, Dave developed a deep respect for insightful books, poetry, music, self-reflection and growth. He found his greatest comfort in the sound of music and movies that would come from his incredible sound system, truly an immersive experience that could reach the depths of your soul.
Dave talked of heaven and how he hopes to be high in the mountains in an open and airy log cabin, with two walls of windows and large decks on each side—one view of the city skyline and the other of the woods, and all the serenity it brings. We truly hope that he is there, on a rocking chair on the porch with a freshly brewed coffee. Until we meet again, Dave, we will hold you in our hearts and memories, for you have left a mark that cannot be erased, and one we hold so dear.
Finally, a quote he often shared from N.R. Hart: “And if you cannot find your way out of the darkness, I will sit there with you and show you the stars.” We hope your heaven has the best view of the stars—we will think of you whenever we look up.
Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements were entrusted to the S.J. Grontkowski Funeral Home, Plymouth.
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