Elizabeth Gordon Turpin, March 21, 1941 -- October 14, 2014
Elizabeth Gordon was born in Kansas City Missouri on the 21st of March, 1941, to Arthur F. Gordon and Innes Hereford Gordon of Odessa Missouri. She attended public schools in Odessa and continued her education at the University of Missouri in Columbia, MO, receiving her bachelor's degree in June, 1962. She was employed by the Department of State, in the nation's capitol as a management analyst specializing in West Africa. Elizabeth met her husband to be in 1964, in Georgetown. On January 22nd, 1965, she was married to Anthony Turpin in Coupeville, Washington. Upon his release from active service in the U.S. Navy, she moved to Los Angeles, CA, and was employed by the Social Security Administration in Hollywood. The couple returned to Oak Harbor, WA, and built their home in 1967. Elizabeth was a case-worker for the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services from 1968 to 1996. Their first son, Daniel Alexander Turpin, was born in 1970 followed by Andrew Gordon Turpin, born in 1975--both in Coupeville, WA. Throughout her life she was active in the community and was instrumental in forming the organization that became the Community Resources Network. An advocate for those in need she expressed her concern both in her work and as a volunteer. Most recently she served as a board member for New Leaf. Elizabeth and her husband traveled extensively following her retirement. They spent many months in Italy each year and resided in the town of Torgiano in the province of Umbria. She is survived by her husband Anthony Turpin of Oak Harbor and her sons and their wives. Also her brother, John, and his wife, Rosalie, and many nieces and nephews hold her dear in their hearts. Her seven grandchildren were and are the light of her life. A private family service will be held at a later date. Memorials are suggested in Elizabeth’s name to New Leaf, 660 SE Fidalgo St., Oak Harbor, WA 98277. Family and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences at www.whidbeymemorial.com.