Brennan Honors Michael “Mike” Turner with Namesake Barge

NORTH KINGSTOWN, RHODE ISLAND – Saturday, September 20, 2025, J.F. Brennan Company (Brennan) christened its newest barge, the Michael Turner, during a gathering that was as heartfelt and full of energy as its namesake. The event brought together Brennan leadership, union members, colleagues, family, and friends for a day that reflected the warmth of Mike Turner’s spirit.

A Celebration of Legacy and Heart

Guests were greeted with music, food, and camaraderie, setting the stage for a truly special celebration. Brennan President and CEO Matt Binsfeld opened the ceremony by sharing why this vessel carries Mike’s name and how his legacy continues to shape the company.

“We are a family business made up of incredible families,” says Binsfeld. “We work hard to foster a good and collaborative culture. Mike, by the type of person, leader, and family man he was, personified our culture. It frankly hurt us all to lose such a wonderful human being who impacted us in such profound ways. Christening the Michael Turner is our opportunity to share Mike’s story with generations of the Brennan Team today and decades into the future.”

Mike’s wife, Katie Turner, followed with a moving address that sparked both laughter and tears, as friends and coworkers remembered moments with Mike.

The words Semper Fi and the emblem of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters, crisply painted in white, stood as a striking tribute to Mike; a symbol of his time spent in the Marine Corps, union, and a tribute to his unwavering dedication to his craft and his teammates.

Father Eric Hosmer blessed the barge and presented Katie with a rosary. Katie and the Turner children, Michael Jr., Teresa, and Marykate, carried out the traditional christening by breaking champagne across the bow, officially welcoming the vessel into service.

The Michael Turner

The Michael Turner barge was a concept of Brennan’s own design. Built to American Bureau of Shipping standards by Feeney Shipyard in Kingston, NY, it is 150 FT in length, 60 FT in width, and has a hull depth of 10 FT. Classed and load-lined for ocean service, the interior of the barge is completely painted to prevent saltwater corrosion.

Though new, this vessel carries with it a weight of meaning and connection. It will not merely support projects; it will serve as a daily tribute to Mike’s dedication, work ethic, and the relationships he fostered.

Remembering Mike Turner

Michael “Mike” Turner joined Brennan in 2021 as a Superintendent and quickly became a respected leader and beloved colleague. He passed away unexpectedly on October 26, 2024, at the age of 46.

Mike’s career reflected his dedication to both country and community. A proud Marine Corps veteran and devoted member of Carpenters Local 326, he oversaw major projects with professionalism, positivity, and care for his team. Beyond his work, Mike was a devoted husband, father, and friend. His enthusiasm for life, whether at family gatherings, on the sidelines of his children’s activities, or sharing stories with colleagues, was infectious.

“Mike was one of the greatest men I have ever met in my life,” says friend and colleague Quentin Thorson. “He was among the most positive, optimistic, honorable, and caring individuals I have known. He approached everything he did with the utmost professionalism and truly cared about those around him, always wanting the best for everyone. No matter the task, no matter how challenging, Mike was all in. Words cannot express enough how much he meant to everyone he encountered. He is truly irreplaceable.”

The christening of the Michael Turner ensures that his legacy lives on in the work he loved and the company he helped strengthen. Just as Mike gave his all to every task, this vessel will carry forward his hard-working spirit for years to come.