The purpose of the Endowment is for the purchase of books and materials as directed by the Dean of the Libraries for areas of greatest need.

William Orville “Mr. Bill” Turnbull was born and raised in Iowa . He studied at the University of Iowa and the US Naval War College, serving in the US Navy from 1938 until his retirement as a commander in 1962. Mr. Turnbull was serving aboard the USS Tennessee when the Japanese attacked and continued with the ship until 1943. He received many medals and commendations throughout his military career. He was director emeritus of the MOAA (Military Officers Association of America), and also was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion.

After his retirement he moved to Washington and attended the University of Washington, graduating with his teaching certificate in 1969. He went to work for the Bremerton School District in 1970. He was active in the Bremerton Education Association, and served as president from 1984 to 1988. He then was elected to the Bremerton School Board, serving from 1988 to 1998.

This endowment was set up with funds from the Estate of William O. Turnbull. Mr. Turnbull had been a faithful UW Libraries donor since 1973.

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