The reason being, in the final days leading up to his death, aged 82, he had full control of what took place, including writing his own eulogy and choosing the songs played.

Among the mourners were representatives of the Albury-Wodonga Cancer Foundation, which he led for 15 years, Albury MLA Greg Aplin, mayor Kevin Mack and Albury Wodonga Health chairman Lou Lieberman.

Also present were Jenny Black and oncologist Craig Underhill, who also played pivotal roles in securing the federal funding for the cancer centre which was officially opened late last year.

But as was his wish, Mr Turner's eulogy covered a life of many moves and a stint in the Army.

The eldest of five children, he enlisted in the Army aged 17 and began recruit training in Brisbane before being transferred to Melbourne.

Mr Turner served in Korea and Japan before being discharged in 1966.

He moved to Albury in the early 1970s and scored his first job locally at the former Hume Country Golf Club before becoming an assistant manager at the Commercial Club.

After leaving Albury for a few years he returned permanently in 1977 and soon became immersed in voluntary work.

Among his early involvements were becoming secretary of a cancer support group and leading a group which built the Browns Lagoon community garden.

In 1993 he joined Aged Concern and won the first of two Albury Citizen-of-the-Year awards two years later.

Mr Turner's eldest son Russell delivered his father's eulogy before youngest Shayne also paid a moving tribute.

“It is amazing the responsibility volunteers accept in serving their community,” Shayne said.

“No one can accomplish very much on their own.

“But if you surround yourself with like-minded, devoted, community-minded people, mountains can be moved.

“Many people when asked who their heroes are, choose a sportsman or someone successful in business or politics.

“Eric's heroes were all here in Albury-Wodonga.”