SCOTTSDALE Robert “Bob” Turpin
– Robert (Bob) Turpin passed away at age 82 on September 7, 2023, in Phoenix, Arizona. He lived his life extremely proud of his service as a captain in the U.S. Navy, raising capital for various investments and supporting his clients, his Board of Director Memberships at many organizations across the valley, and his family. He was very involved in Valley Presbyterian Church as a prominent member of the choir, a deacon, an elder, and a foundation member. Bob had a remarkable ability to make everyone around him feel valued and cherished. His generosity knew no bounds, and he was always there to help a friend or offer a word of encouragement. His wisdom was sought by many, and his lessons in life will continue to guide us. He was the patriarch of our family who told wonderful stories, had a great sense of humor, unshakable confidence, and an embrace that made you feel safe and loved.
Bob cherished his role as a grandfather, imparting his wisdom and values, and always being a source of endless support, guidance, and love. His absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of calling him “Grandpa.” Bob adored his wife, Polly, and was always incredibly proud of his children and grandchildren, speaking of their accomplishments with the highest regard and a little exaggeration.
Bob was born on March 9, 1941, in Evanston, Illinois to Harriet Leonard Turpin and William Turpin who lived in Elgin, Illinois along with his older brother Leonard and his younger sister Ann. Later, they moved to a farm in Woodstock, Illinois where he enjoyed the farm life and growing cord for the Jolly Green Giant. He went to high school at North Shore Country Day in Winnetka, Illinois where he participated in sports and discovered his love for music by singing in Gilbert and Sullivan musical productions, his favorite being the Pirates of Penzance.
After high school, Bob attended Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where he met his wife, Alleene “Polly” Pollitz. While at Coe, he sang in the choir, played football, and was a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity. He earned his degree in both history and business administration. He later went to San Diego State College for his masters.
After graduating from Coe, Bob joined the U.S. Navy and attended Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island. He began his active service on the USS Galveston (CLG-3) in Japan and later spent three tours in the coastal waters of Vietnam during the Vietnam war. He continued his 31 year Naval career in the Navy Reserve and was promoted to Captain in 1980, retiring in 1994. He was most proud of his work with the Naval War College Foundation, the Joe Foss Institute, and many other military organizations. He was inducted into the Arizona Veterans’ Hall of Fame in 2015. His dedication to our country was inspiring and a testament to his character.
In 1970, Bob joined the Harris Bank in Chicago as a portfolio manager and was later sent to Scottsdale, Arizona to open the Harris Trust Company of Arizona as president. After leaving the bank in 1982, he co-started Turpin-Fischer Investment Advisors. He raised capital for various investments and community service organizations throughout his life.
Near the time of his death, when asked what the greatest lesson was that he learned from his life, he said, “Forgiveness. Learning how to forgive people when you see an injustice and being able to do it without pain or suffering. Just willing to forgive people.”
Bob is survived by his wife of over 58 years, Polly Turpin, his daughter Julie Turpin Dillon (Dave Darby), his son Scott Turpin (Hannah), his sister Ann Turpin Thayer, Becky & Mike Pollitz, and his grandchildren Ryan Dillon, Jake Dillon, Reed Dillon, and Charlotte Turpin.
Services: A celebration of life will be held Saturday, September 30th at 10 a.m. at Valley Presbyterian Church, 6947 E. McDonald Drive, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253.