Rodger Frank Turner

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Rodger Turner on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at St. Vincent’s hospital.

Rodger was the son of the late Marion (Cronsberry) Turner and the late Leonard Turner. He is survived by his sister Marilen Turner, as well as by many friends he considered to be as close as family.

Rodger lived his life in Ottawa, Ontario, where he received a BA and MA from Carleton University. While dedicated to his lifelong career at Revenue Canada (now the Canada Revenue Agency), his true passion was reading – particularly science fiction, fantasy, and horror. He co-owned an Ottawa bookstore, the House of Speculative Fiction, where he could be found each Saturday until the store closed in 1997, discussing books with those few he considered knowledgeable, and making recommendations to selected individuals who found a way through his sometimes-crusty outer shell to seek his expert opinion. Rodger was keenly involved with the World Fantasy Awards, serving several years on the board, as well as administering ballots for the annual awards. He always looked forward to attending the annual convention until his illness inhibited his ability to travel. Rodger also designed websites for a number of authors, and he created and maintained the SF Site, an extensive and enduring website dedicated to speculative fiction books, with many hundreds of reviews, interviews, and articles by a wide selection of contributors. Rodger was diagnosed with cancer four years ago. He fought a valiant battle and remained positive and grateful throughout his care, providing a model of fortitude and grace for those he leaves behind.

A Celebration of Life will follow at a later date.