Ralph "Jack" Turpen

Ralph E. “Jack” Turpen, 87, passed away Friday July 29, at his home on North Main Street in Somerset, KY surrounded by his family. The son of Arnold and Anna Combest Turpen, Jack was born on April 6, 1924. He is survived by Beatrice Prather Turpen, whom he married February 12, 1944. He is also survived by three children: daughters, Phyllis Turpen, Nashville, TN and Jenny Aker, Frankfort, KY; and son Bill and Janice Turpen, Somerset, KY. Six grandchildren: Cara Beth Wilson and Luke Wilson of Nashville, TN; Gretchen Turpen, Nashville, TN; Emily (Brent) Stewart, Brentwood, TN; Sarah-Ann (Buddy) Davis, Greenville, S.C.; and Allison (Matthew) Gates, Somerset, KY. Five great-grandchildren: Calvin Gates, Tenner Wilson, Gretta-Kate Stewart, Temple Stewart, and Trey Davis. He is also survived by one sister, Helen (Ray) Walters, Nancy, KY. He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister Georgia Turpen, and one grandson Matthew Aker. He was also preceded in death by his father-in-law Arthur G. Prather and mothers-in-law Cora Woods Prather and Esma Girkey Prather, and brothers-in-law Bill Prather and Jim Prather. Jack was a former owner and operator of Somerset Produce Company and Somerset – Pulaski County Livestock Market for over 35 years. He started Turpen Builders and Turpen Rentals with his son Bill. Jack and Bill were in business together for over 25 years. Recently, Jack was in real estate with Lyle Stevenson. Accepting Christ as his Savior when he was 28 years old, Jack was a faithful member of West Somerset Baptist Church, where he served as trustee and deacon for over 50 years. He selflessly served on numerous committees and other leadership capacities throughout the church. Jack was a veteran of WW II serving with the U.S. Army in the 77th Infantry in occupied Japan and the Philippines. For over 60 years, he was a member of the Sievers Masonic Lodge #491 of Nancy, KY as well as a charter member of the Eastern Star Fidelis Chapter #545. He was a Shriner and also served as a trustee of the Cumberland Baptist Institute in Somerset, KY. Jack was deeply loved by his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and numerous friends. He led a humble life, was a mentor to many in the community and will be greatly missed. Both visitation and funeral services for Jack Turpen will be held at West Somerset Baptist Church officiated by Pastor Larry Butte, assisted by family friend Dr. Robert Browning. Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 31 from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. as well as Monday, August 1, starting at 10 a.m. until time for services on Monday, which will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. at the church. Burial will follow in the West Somerset Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to West Somerset Baptist Church or Hospice of Lake Cumberland.