Obituary of Barry Turnbull

George Barry Turnbull, known to his friends and family as Barry, passed peacefully at the age of 86 on Friday, March 29, 2024. Barry is survived by his loving wife Karen, his sons Sean and Ryan, his grandchildren Riley and Skylar, and his sister Beverley Turnbull-Renville. 

Barry was born on September 21, 1937 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and raised in the North End of Winnipeg and East Kildonan with his sister Beverly, and three brothers Alex, Bobby, and Hughie.

Rumour has it that the Turnbull boys were quite the trouble makers in their youth, an attribute Barry carried with him throughout his life with his fun-loving banter and witty humour. 

Barry had a 37 year career at Manitoba Hydro, where he met the love of his life Karen. Karen and Barry married in 1966, had two children Sean and Ryan and moved to North Kildonan, where they purchased their forever home. Barry retired from Manitoba Hydro in 1987 and spent the rest of his life enjoying retirement. 

Barry loved spending time with friends and family at his summer home in Hillside Beach, and avoiding the cold Winnipeg winters in Mexico, whenever possible. Barry loved to relax or nap on the couch, sipping a whiskey and water, while he watched sports or one of his favourite shows. 

Barry was a caregiver at heart. He dedicated his adult life to raising his children and being the legal guardian for his oldest, and renowned brother Alex. He gave his time to his children and to the community, as a youth sports coach and volunteer at the local community center, and at the lake. In retirement, Barry remained involved in sports as a softball umpire, and was known for many questionable calls against his sons and their friends. Barry was also a fan, cheering on his kids and grandchildren at various sporting events. 

As Per Barry’s wishes, a Celebration of Life will be held at the Prince Edward Legion on Wednesday, June 19, 2024 at 1:00 pm, located at 300 Trent Avenue, where friends and family will honour Barry, whose presence touched so many lives.

Barry’s family invites friends and family to honour his memory by sharing photos, memories, and stories that can be shared at the celebration of life.