Mark Anthony Wade Turpen

Retired Army Major Mark Anthony (Tony) Wade Turpen, age 60, beloved husband and brother, passed away at home in San Antonio, Nov. 19, 2022, after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s and PTSD. Tony, born Aug.23, 1962 in Peru, Indiana, was preceded in death by his parents James H. and Carolyn Ann Turpen. He is survived by his wife, Blondina (Dina) Becero-Sales Turpen; sister Candace S. Turpen-Johnson (John Johnson), and family; sister Deanna R. Turpen and family, and brother James A. Turpen (Beth) and family; Nieces Amber N Gutschner (Andrew), Jenna P. Green, Amanda R. Hamby (Anthony Spencer); Nephews Kyle J. Turpen, James J. Lee, William, Christopher Lee, and Corey J. Hamby; his nephews are also Honorary Pall Bearers.

Tony and Dina were married 33 years ago in San Diego, CA, where he was stationed with the Navy on the USS Merrill (DD 976). Tony dearly loved his time in the military and always considered it, along with his Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice and Public Safety from Auburn University, his two greatest accomplishments. After more than 20 years both active and reserve service in the US Navy, US Army and Army National Guard (Texas), including a tour in Iraq, he retired from a fulfilling career. He earned numerous decorations and medals, including the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal (2nd Award), and Joint Meritorious Unit Award (2nd Award), plus the Navy Unit Commendation and Navy Good Conduct medal.

Meanwhile, Tony put his Master’s to good use with a parallel career as a Special Agent with the Immigration and Naturalization Service and the Drug Enforcement Agency. He retired from that challenging career to battle his PTSD and early onset Alzheimer’s.

Tony loved to bowl, fish, hunt, read and especially to go dancing with Dina. Tony and Dina enjoyed traveling and seeing new and exciting places. He loved jazz music, especially Willie G. and enjoyed many hours walking their sweet doggie Sky as they both visited with neighbors.

Tony will be greatly missed by his family, friends and devoted wife.