Dog Turner Tribute
Bud "Dog" Turner was associated with the Cal football program for 50 seasons until his passing at the age of 84 on Sept. 3, 2020. He began as a part-time field phone operator for the public address announcer in 1970 and worked in every area of football operations throughout his tenure. He was doubling in security and operations during both practice and gamedays up until his death. Turner holds a lifetime honorable Big C and is a member of the Sons of California.
Turner saw his first Cal football game on September 27, 1947, when the Golden Bears beat Navy, 14-7, at California Memorial Stadium before a crowd of 83,000, which to this day stands as the largest paid attendance at the venue.
Affectionately known as “Dog,” Turner was given the nickname by childhood friend Mike White who later became the head Cal football coach (1972-77). White gave Turner the nickname for his tough characteristics that were similar to former Chicago Bears' linebacker and 1966 NFL Hall of Fame inductee Clyde “Bulldog” Turner.
In addition to his work with Cal, Turner was a full-time soil engineer until retiring in 1998. He also twice served in the Army from 1955-58 and 1960-64. He made 103 military jumps and was deployed to Japan and Germany.
Turner graduated from Diablo Valley College. He is survived by his wife, Joan, their three children: Kim, Kurt and Kristi, and seven grandchildren.
Last Updated
September 4, 2020
