R.I.P. Ed Turner

John Campea 55 Comments

There is a 99.999% chance you don’t know Ed Turner, or maybe even ever heard of him… but for a short time I knew him, and he was one hell of a talented and good guy. He was my 1st assistant director on my movie “The Anniversary” and has about 70 movies on his credit list. He was funny, dedicated, as hard working as he was tall and loved movies.

I just found out Ed passed away yesterday and I’m currently agonizing over how many times I thought about touching base with him since we wrapped shooting but more times than not never got around to it.

Ed saved my movie before I even realized it needed saving. Ed was the “strong” voice on our set. Cracking the whip, keeping things moving, keeping us on our ridiculous schedule. He’d jump when I needed him to jump, and got in my face when I needed it. There at the crack of dawn (or earlier) and usually one of the last ones to leave the set at 4am. I LOVED working with him and was looking forward to working with him more in the future. He was a great guy to have around, and to BE around. That’s all I can say right now.

Ed-1.jpg
(Ed with me on the set of our movie)

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55 thoughts on “R.I.P. Ed Turner”

  2. Happy belated Edward… think about you often and we all miss you! Hope you’re in a better place smiling down and waiting patiently for those who miss you… and shaking your head at your guuuurl, I’m sure she’s given you some good laughs! :) – R Dub

  3. I went to College with Ed, we lived in the same Freshman dorm. There is not much more I can add about the character of Ed, other than how it affected me. It was difficult to hear about his death, main because it was so late after the even a happened. I will miss him and think of him often.

  4. I just happened upon this blog after asking myself why Ed did not return my email regarding post sound that he was planning on doing. So for some reason I typed in Ed Turner and this popped up. When I clicked on it I didn’t really think this was our Ed… but I just clicked on it.

    I am really sorry to hear that Ed passed away I had the pleasure of working with him on our film Of Silence… that is him and the director on his imdb page. He was a really nice person and during breaks I would often chat with Ed and sometimes play cards and music with him as well as the rest of the crew. I know when they hear about Ed passing they will all be devastated.

    I saw Ed on August 18th in downtown I was at the court house and he was jumping on the bus and we chatted for a few seconds hugged and that was that. I never would have guessed this was the reason I had not yet heard from him. How awful.

    I would really like to know what happened to Ed because he was so young and full of life that I just don’t understand and am really shocked. Does anyone know?

    My condolences to his family and friends.

  6. I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Ed Turner. He did sound on two of my short films, mixing as he boomed and he worked hard. May he RIP, and my condolences to his family and girlfriend.

  7. I am so saddened to hear the news of this tragic loss…my thoughts and prayers go out to Ed’s family and Sara. I had the distinct pleasure of working with Ed on “Witt’s Daughter”…he was an amazing person and he will be greatly missed.

  11. Sarah,Mr & Mrs. Turner,
    I am deeply sorry for your loss,although i did not
    know your son,after reading all the wonderful words,i feel as if i do.I have known Sarah & her family,for many yrs.I just found out of his passing
    this evening,you are in my thoughts.Please know this
    that Sarah & your son were very fortunate to have such a wonderful relationship.It will truly get you
    through the rough times.Take care.

  12. I am Carey Lee Coffey’s mom and when I had the chance to go to the bug infested 105 degree heat in Tenn. in July of 2008 to watch him film his movie I did. I will be forever grateful for that experience because I got to meet Ed Turner there. What a great person, he had the wit and kindness that impressed me more than anyone on the set. I tired to get a moment to speak with him each day, he worked tirelessly standing for hours with the boom above his head. My son loved him dearly, he was easy to love. I only got to spend 10 days with him, when I asked what is that guy’s job that yells at everyone, he said “He’s the Cat Hearder”. Because getting actors and crew into place is like hearding cats. I’ll never forget his humor and wonderful manner. What a special man. Condolences to Ed’s parents, friends and family. He was a very wonderful special guy, God bless you Ed, save us a seat.

  13. I first met Ed when I was looking to hire a great boom operator for my movie Camouflage. The search didn’t last long though, because within ten seconds of meeting Ed, I knew he was the right guy for the job. A great boom operator is smart, experienced, stealthy, silent and hopefully tall. Ed was all of these things, and a whole lot more. He was super friendly, mild mannered and wise beyond his years… oh and he was six foot five!!

    Ed was the strong, silent type. The first thing I noticed, on the set of Camouflage, was that Ed never spoke unless he had something brilliant to say. Which turned out to be quite often because he always had something brilliant to say. Brilliant and witty with a hint of sarcasm, just for those who were smart enough to catch it. He was the voice of reason on the set. Anytime there was a situation where no one knew what to do, Ed always knew. As the Cinematographer of the film, Ed was my right hand man, and we created a special bond that would last throughout the rest of the shoot and beyond. We were in Tennessee for four weeks shooting Camouflage. We worked together all day, in the middle of the tick infested woods, in the unbearable July heat, with scant food and drinks, and he never once complained. He was a warrior. A soldier. And I’m honored to say that we went to battle together.

    During the shoot, the crew all lived together. I enjoyed hanging out with Ed after the long days. We’d share a smoke and a laugh, and we’d talk about our day and our plans for tomorrow. As a Producer, I think I showed a bit of favoritism towards Ed because of my fondness for him. I would always let Ed come in the editing room and watch the dailies with us. He appreciated that. I even gave Ed my bed in the master bedroom because he had trouble sleeping in the living room with all of the noise. He really appreciated that and he always reminded me how much so.

    After Camouflage, I promised Ed I would hire him on every one of my future projects. So, when John hired me to shoot The Anniversary, Ed was the first guy I called. He was as happy as I was to be working together again.

    Ed was always my favorite person on any set and I will miss him dearly. He is simply irreplaceable. I will never make another movie without thinking about Ed Turner and wishing he was there by my side. I love you man.

  14. Ed’s mom, Janice,and I literally grew up from baby-hood together. I’ve known his dad, Dave, since Janice and he started dating in high school-jeepers, since about 1968!! Ed was their first son, Peter their second. Home to me is their wonderful 1800s old house in Evansville, Wisconsin. No matter how long I’ve been away, when I step into that house I’m home and safe.

    Edward was one of the brightest children I’d ever met. I have a photo of him at age 3; gosh, he was a cutie and he talked non-stop! That was definitely the Montgomery side (Janice’s family)! He was a voracious reader and relished the Lord of the Rings trilogy I sent back to him when he was young.

    Janice has an irreverent sense of adventure and humor which she passed on to her sons. When I was a kid, she also took care of everyone’s scraped knee, bumps and bruises. She was born with deep compassion which led to her profession as a nurse.

    Dave is a solid, incredibly artistic (self taught) man who has remodeled the old house, paints beautiful nature art, makes furniture, and turns wooden bowls-he made a beauty for Sara last time I was home. I have a photo of us at the table (Ed’s mom is a wonderful cook) with 8 different bottles of damned good wine Dave made, each from a different plant. He is a gentle, soft-spoken man with a big heart and an easy laugh.

    Ed’s parents have always been there for me, and Ed had that family to turn to. Not to mention his sweet-natured brother, Peter and his wife and kids. I’m sure Sara’s family was a treasure to him as well. Ed was definitely blessed with loving families.

    I am incredibly heart-broken to hear of Ed’s death. Because I love his family so much, there is a hole torn through my heart. I am so sorry that he has left this world too early, but I am heartened to learn how many others lives he has touched. His legacy will live on through his work as well as the memories he has given to his friends, family and colleagues.

  17. My condolences to Sara, Janice and Dave. I brought you up in my prayer group on Tuesday night after I heard about Ed. I got to work with him too. He was all that has been said, and his brilliance saved a scene in my movie as well. I was looking forward to working with him again.

  18. Ed, Ed, Ed.You must know how much Ed & Sarah mean to me. The fondest memories are them coming to San Diego and spending the weekend with me at my oasis on the beach. We would brandish our Green Bay Packer attire and head to the nearest Packer bar and have such a great time. Ed would make us laugh all day long. Even my friends that Ed has met say, “wow, that’s one funny guy!” Ed will be sadly missed but his memory and laughter will stay with me for ever. Rest in peace my friend. We’ll surely miss you. Thanks John for making this blog!!!

  19. Sara, Janice, I’m so, so sorry for your loss.
    I can definitely see how Ed was successful in the movie business. He had an eye and ear for detail. Ed and I were roommates for a short time. When he practiced guitar it was inspiring. So, inspiring in fact that I asked him to turn one of my poems into a song. He obliged and maybe enjoyed doing it. Although, with me doing the vocals I know he was very frustrated at times.
    Ed and I had many great conversations. He always had interesting angles. Our conversations could start in the middle of a party and we would still be sitting there debating after everyone had left or gone to bed. We both looked forward to the chance to sit and talk with a glass of wine.
    Good friends are hard to find. Ed was a good friend and will be truly and deeply missed.

    Sarah Richling

  20. Ed was a kind-hearted soul that left his mark everywhere, both personally and professionally. The kind words here prove that today. I didn’t even get the privilege to get to know him well, but I knew that he was a good person and that he would always be remembered. My heart goes out to his family, as well as Sara’s, since he meant so much to so many people. He has left us too soon, but his memories will live on forever…XXOO

    1. I added this to the credits yesterday:

      “In Memoriam: Ed Turner”

      (by the way, I’m not the John who started this blog, in case there was any confusion about that)

  22. Ed was a great guy. There arent words enough to encompass how talented he was. He was so smart and so funny and what I remembered most was how well read he was on almost every subject. I am devasted by the loss but my feelings can not compare to the way his family and best friend feel so I just send my condolences as they are all I can give during this trying time.
    Ed, you will live forever in my memory as the smart guy who loved smoothies and Im okay with that.

  23. I love you Ed. I’ve lost a brother and you were Sara’s world. I can’t stop thinking about you and Sara and your parents and your brother… I spent some time with your mom last year at my parents house. What a wonderful woman! I see where you got your sweetness and humor — not sure if others got to see that silly side of you but you cracked me up many times!! Initially, you and my sis seamed like such an unlikely couple but you stuck it out and stayed together and didn’t give up on each other. I respect that. My little sis is kind of a diva-ish tom boy (if you know her, you know exactly what I’m talking about:) and when she burped and cussed like a sailor and others rolled their eyes not understanding her wacky sense of humor… you just smiled and loved her and had that look like, “that’s my girl..” Never one to judge and there really are few people like that and its probably one of the best traits a person can have. My son was so sad when I told him you were gone… he was sad that we wouldn’t get to prank you anymore. We always loved doing that and you always played along and let him think you had no idea who it was… I mean really, you didn’t believe you had just won, “ooooneee milllllion dolllarrs…” :) You will be absolutely missed. And fine, I’ll admit it — you were more fluent in Spanish that me… whatever!
    -Senorita Wencheslauce :)

  24. I would also like to thank everyone for sharing their thoughts and memories of my dearest love Ed. He was my everything and the world will truly not be the same without him. Edward meant so much to so many people and his loving, witty, and at times sarcastic personality (LOL) will always be remembered.

    Peace&Love to all, Sara Wagabaza

  25. Thank you so much for your kind words regarding our son Ed. There are no words to express the grief and despair that our family is feeling. We have no idea at this time of the cause of death as the results of the autopsy won’t be available for several weeks. And since we have not been “officially” told of his death by the L.A. police, who knows when we will have our questions laid to rest.
    Ed was a loving, caring son, full of wit and charm. He began his musical passion at the age of three, taking piano lessons. He had a brilliant mind that at the age of 8 had learned Latin from a dictionary that his aunt had given him. He was fluent in Spanish. After graduating from the U.W. of Wis. he attended Madison Media Institute just long enough to pick up the trade. He moved to L.A. with the shirt on his back and $800 with a goal of becoming a musician. But, he had to “pay the rent” so he began his own business doing sound. The one constant in his life has been his dearest friend, Sara.
    Ed wanted desperately to return home to his family and often remarked that he wanted to be part of his niece and nephew’s lives. And that he missed his younger brother Peter. We wanted him home but not this way.
    Again, thank you for your sharing your feelings of loss for our son.
    Janice and Dave Turner

  32. I had the wonderful opportunity of working with Ed on THE ANNIVERSARY as well. It is true that he was a talented and focused professional but he was also an incredibly genuine human being. I spent many of our breaks on set hanging out with Ed and just talking. My 18 year old brother, Sean, passed away three days after John offered me the role of Cid in the movie. Ed would always ask me how I was doing and if I needed to take a moment and talk about it and occasionally we would. He was very considerate. I really enjoyed working with him and as John has said, I too was looking forward to working with him again in the future. He will missed greatly. Rest In Peace Ed.

  33. .0001% I knew Ed and he was a good man. He will be missed. I worked with him several times and am sorry that it will not have that opportunity again. Rest In Peace Ed.

  34. .0001% I knew Ed an he was a good man. He will be missed. I worked with him several times and am sorry that it will not have that opportunity again. Rest In Peace Ed.

  37. Ed boomed for me on various projects on which I was the sound mixer. I don’t know the cause of death at this time. I hope to learn more in the next few days.

    The last time I saw Ed was 9 days ago, when we wrapped another short. After the shoot, Ed helped me load my car with gear and we shook hands,
    gave each other words of appreciation and made tentative plans to work on another project next month, if it came to fruition.

    Ed was a bright, creative guy (I used some of Ed’s music in a short I recently completed). He had a reserved demeanor that covered some deep
    currents. He was upfront about a lot of things, and didn’t mind telling people what he thought when they tried to take advantage of him,
    something which happens too often in the lower-pay end of this craft/art/business. I had no problem with his honesty, especially since
    I often agreed with him.

    I hope he didn’t suffer much in the end.

      1. I don’t think it’s insensitive to ask how someone died, it’s fairly common, especially when that person was very young. Anyway, I don’t mean to bicker in here.

        My condolences.

      1. “who’d ask that?”

        Thats a joke question right?!?!

        Usually when someone young and in his prime goes “why” and “how” are the first things that come to mind!

        I guess because no one here really knows him they probably don’t care enough……

      2. have to agree first thing i thought was “how did he pass away”

        i wont ask it cause its not in my place but to say i didnt wonder that would be a lie …either way its none of are business if they dont want to share it…..i am pretty sure the jist of this post is to say that Ed Turner was a great guy and a hard worker at his craft and helped john (love him or hate him this is his site and we have followed him for years so it does matter to regulars) make a life dream of making a solid movie happen RIP Ed may your families and friends memories of you keep you in there minds and hearts

  45. I am sorry for your loss John. A few days ago my uncle passed away, and in what I’m hoping might be a small consolation, a friend of mine gave me a couple of quotes I hope will help you as well:

    “I am ready to meet my Maker. Whether my Maker is prepared for the ordeal of meeting me is another matter.” – Winston Churchill

    “I Believe That Imagination Is Stronger than Knowledge – Myth Is More Potent than History – Dreams Are More Powerful than Facts – Hope Always Triumphs over Experience – Laughter Is the Cure for Grief – Love Is Stronger than Death” -Robert Fulghum

    I wish you all the best.

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