Ames High School Wrestler Ronin Turnbull Dies at 14, Leaving Wrestlers and Coaches in Mourning
The Ames community is grieving deeply following the sudden passing of Ronin Eli Turnbull, a 14-year-old student and athlete who died on Sunday, May 31, 2026.
A ninth grader at Ames High School, Ronin was remembered by teammates, coaches, and community members as a young man of rare character who left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
No cause of death has been publicly disclosed. A full obituary is listed as pending through Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care in Ames, which is handling arrangements.
Ronin was an active member of both the Ames High wrestling team and the Alliance Ames Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy, known locally as Famousfive6 Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Those who trained and competed alongside him say his loss has hit both communities hard.
The Ames High Wrestling program shared a tribute on social media, describing the grief felt across the team.
“Wrestling builds bonds that go far beyond the mat, and the impact Ronin made on our team, our community, and our lives will never be forgotten,” the program wrote, adding the tribute hashtag #thebull in his honor.
Vladimir Williams Sr., owner and instructor of Alliance Ames Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, also issued a heartfelt statement on behalf of his gym family. He described Ronin as “incredibly talented, generous, compassionate, with a big heart that touched many lives and a gentle energy that everyone enjoyed.” Williams extended prayers to Ronin’s family, friends, and classmates as they navigate the painful days ahead.
A Celebration of Life Set for June 12
A public gathering to remember and honor Ronin is scheduled for Friday, June 12, 2026, from 4 to 6 p.m. at The Parlor Event Center, located behind Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care at 119 Washington Ave in Ames.
The event is open to those who wish to pay their respects and share memories of the young man who meant so much to so many.
Ronin is survived by his family and remembered by an entire community that watched him grow, compete, and carry himself with a kind of quiet grace that, by all accounts, made him stand out far beyond his years. He was a son, a brother, a grandson, a nephew, and a teammate.
The Ames High School community, the local wrestling circuit, and the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu family in central Iowa have all rallied around those closest to him.
Memorials and floral arrangements can be arranged through Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care at 414 Lincoln Way, Ames, Iowa.
Ronin Eli Turnbull was 14 years old.
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