After nearly 20 years of dedicated service in our Emergency Department, we’re honored to recognize the retirement of Dr. Paul Turnquist—a steady, compassionate, and skilled physician who has made a lasting impact on Penobscot Valley Hospital and our entire community.
Since 2005, Dr. Turnquist has brought calm in the chaos, care in the crisis, and humanity to every shift. From caring for critically ill patients to supporting aviation safety through flight physicals, he has done it all with quiet strength and unwavering dedication.
“In a profession where burnout is common, Dr. Turnquist has always led by quiet example—proving that excellence and empathy can go hand in hand,” said PVH CEO Melissa Pelkey.
When asked what guided him throughout his career, Dr. Turnquist said it best:
“It’s always about the patient, it’s not about us. We need to do everything for the patient. And that’s what PVH does. We are always about the patient.”
As he steps into a well-deserved retirement, we wish him endless joy in the adventures ahead—whether it’s building airplanes or simply enjoying more time with family.
Thank you, Dr. Turnquist. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy will live on in the lives you’ve touched.