Dr. Kenneth Walter Turnbull

Dr. Ken Turnbull, devoted husband of Deanna for 60 years, loving father to Bruce, Shelley and Kim, died on Sunday July 3, 2022 at the age of 84.

Born December 22, 1937, in Vancouver BC to parents Charles and Edith Turnbull, Ken grew up in Vancouver (sister Doreen). He attended Prince of Wales High School and was the Valedictorian of his graduation class. Ken’s love of learning continued into his university years. Enrolling and graduating in Civil Engineering at UBC with the intention of continuing his father’s Engineering firm (Turnbull & Gale). During his early university years, he met the love of his life Deanna (Gourlay). Ken and Deanna were married in 1962.

He and Deanna shared 3 loving children Bruce (Sheryl), Shelley (Graham), and Kim. Ken loved and will be missed by his 6 grandchildren Max & Simon, Cameron & Chelsea, and Natalie & Rebecca.

In the same year that Ken and Deanna were married, Ken changed his life journey and entered Medical School at UBC. He followed his passion in medicine which led him to a career in Anaesthesia, where he found his niche in Cardiac Surgery ICU Anaesthesia.

Ken was passionate about his work, loved the staff he worked with, and his patients. He never stopped learning, and was a passionate clinician, instructor, and mentor. His involvement in his work and his education never ceased, and he was always excited to share his knowledge and work with colleagues and students in the Simulator.

Ken lived his life to the fullest, and he gave generously, compassionately, and was always willing to share his knowledge and support to those around him. He served on many committees, mentoring many residents, students and colleagues. His contributions to medicine are reflected in the many awards and accolades he received.

Ken retired from his career in Anaesthesia in 2003. He and Deanna had previously moved to Tsawwassen, and it was then that they were truly able to fulfill their dream of living on the beach.

Ken’s SeaBee was one of his passions. He and his “flying buddies” spent many weekends flying into lakes where they camped, fished, and enjoyed each other’s company.

When not at home with family, or at work, he could be found at the airport tinkering with the “Bee”.

He had many hobbies and interests, always looking for some new project to take on. Some of these included talking to people around the world on his HAM radio, making wine in the basement, practicing acupuncture, camping, fishing, flying, and biking.

Special to Dad were the summer’s spent at the cabin. Packing up the old station wagon and heading to the Island. Swimming, jumping off the rocks, clamming, crabbing and just hanging out with family and friends.

Ken was a dedicated husband and loving Dad. Ken’s loss will be felt deeply to all of us, and to all those whose lives he touched. Dad you are forever in our hearts and our souls. Every day we see bits of you in the world around us. We are grateful for your love, your passion, and your energy. We love you, Dad.

A celebration of Ken’s life will be held at Tsawwassen Springs Golf Course on Sunday October 2 at 1:30pm.

Gifts in his memory can be made to the South Delta Stroke Recovery Society.