Mark George Turner

Mark George Turner — known to some (quite convincingly) by his college nickname, “Mel Feldman”, lived a life full of laughter, connection, and boundless energy. Born in Maryland in 1954, Mark carried his East Coast spirit with him when he relocated to Columbus, Ohio in his late twenties to pursue a new job and ultimately, to build a beautiful life.

An entrepreneur at heart, Mark co-founded two businesses: Hoggy’s and Steak Escape. He poured his creativity, determination, and good humor into everything he did. But more than any professional achievement, Mark’s true success was found in the people he loved. He shared 34 years of marriage with his wife, Kathy, and was the proud dad of three children: Merideth (Samuel), Kyle (Kelsey), and Jillian. He was also “Poppy” to his beloved granddaughter, Margot. He is survived by his siblings Sue (Doug), Marybeth (Rod), and Brian (Julie), and preceded in death by his parents and brother Gregory.

Mark loved being surrounded by family and friends — and making new friends wherever he went. His pride in his alma mater, the University of Maryland, ran deep. He was a loyal fan of all Terrapin sports, especially men’s basketball. He proudly served on the University’s Board of Trustees. Mark had lifelong friends from his years in Maryland — from childhood to college — and he especially cherished the bond he shared with his Theta Chi fraternity brothers. After moving to Ohio, he enjoyed attending and tailgating at Ohio State University games, but the Terrapins always had his heart.

He was also an active member of the Columbus Academy community, where he served on the Board of Trustees and as President of the Parents Association. He valued the lifelong connections he built through his YPO (Young Presidents’ Organization) forum group and loved starting his day with an early morning workout at New Albany Country Club, where he cherished his friendships and routine. Mark especially loved visiting his kids at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. He was always up for fun and loved being “one of the kids” for a weekend.

Mark was a devout Catholic and a member of both St. Mary’s Church in German Village and the Church of the Resurrection in New Albany at different points during his years in Columbus. He found great joy and peace in attending Mass, serving the Eucharist, and listening to the beautiful choirs at these parishes.

To know Mark was to laugh — a lot. He had the rare gift of making everyone feel like a friend. His humor, warmth, and larger-than-life presence filled every room and every heart.

Mark’s long medical journey was supported by many dedicated and compassionate people. The family would especially like to thank Dr. Peter Kourlas, who championed Mark’s care, and his wonderful staff for their unwavering commitment. We are also deeply grateful to our dear friends in the medical community: Dr. John Blair, Dr. David Bichsel, Dr. Rebecca Brightman, Dr. William Wise, and Dr. Lynn Long for their guidance, support, and friendship throughout the years. Lastly, we wish to express heartfelt thanks to the Kobacker House for their extraordinary care and compassion during the final chapter of Mark’s life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Kobacker House in Mark’s memory. 

Celebration of Life:

Please join us as we celebrate the life and memory of Mark George Turner in the way he would have wanted - surrounded by family, friends, good food, and good drinks.

Sunday, November 2, 2025

3:00–5:30PM

Jorgensen Farms

5851 East Walnut Street

Westerville, OH 43081

Casual attire welcome.

We hope you’ll join us in honoring Mark’s incredible life and the joy he brought to all who knew him.

We invite friends and family to share memories, photos, and stories at RememberingMarkTurner@gmail.com