We are devastated to announce the sudden passing of our son, Ronin Eli Turnbull, on Sunday May 31, 2026. Ronin, born on July 13, 2011, was only 14 years old. This loss was completely unexpected, and our family is deeply grieving. Ronin you were so loved and will be deeply missed.

We will hold a Celebration of Life Memorial Gathering for him on Friday, June 12, 2026, from 4-6pm at The Parlor, 119 Washington Ave adjacent to Grandon Funeral Home. All are welcome to come and gain comfort from each other and share stories of Ronin in a casual and relaxed manner, Ronin would have wanted a few laughs to be had. A smaller, private ceremony for close family and friends will be held at 3pm the same day.

Ronin loved to be active, and at 5 years old, was introduced to the sport of Jiu-Jitsu which he grew to love and attended his whole life. He was involved in several sports throughout his school career: basketball, baseball, swimming and most recently wrestling, where he developed several wonderful friendships. However, no matter the sport, he always was eager to get back to Jiu-Jitsu at Alliance Ames, with Vladamir Williams as his long-time instructor. He had goals this summer to further develop his skills, gain another stripe on his belt, and attend tournaments. He had a gentle spirit and surprising patience when needed; often helping the very young children in his Jiu Jitsu class learn the warmup moves. Ronin looked forward to coaching class himself when he was older.

His other passions included hiking with his family, video games and skateboarding; which his father taught him to do at a young age. As he grew older, he was SO excited to find friends that shared the same love of skating as him. He was actively working on learning new tricks at the skate park and loved spending time there. It was his happy place.

He was at the precious age of gaining independence but not quite driving yet. And was often keen to walk with friends all through Ames to Walmart or to get ice cream and snacks. He loved being with his friends and doing simple things with them. Music brought him joy as well, and he would listen to a wide variety of artists. His parents often laughed when overhearing his song choices as he sang in the shower.

Ronin was always ready to help others and be of service. From an early age he knew he wanted to be a police officer and had a backup plan of being an elementary P.E. teacher. He had a willingness to please others and could be relied on.
Ronin was always ready to laugh, joke around and was often smiling with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. His smile lit up the room. He could be deeply compassionate and loved his pets, especially his cat Moon, who recently passed.

He had SO much potential, SO much to accomplish and was SO loved. The impression he left on the lives of others will never be forgotten. He will live in the memories of his friends, community and surviving family: His father Mike Turnbull, Mother Jennifer Camden and sister Maddy Turnbull. Along with his grandparents, Lisa and David Camden, his Great-Grandpa John Sefren, his Great Aunt Becky, and his aunts: Joanna Camden, Lisa Turnbull, Christi Turnbull and their children.