Obituary of Archer Roop Turnbull

Captain Archer R Turnbull 1927-2016 Sailed out on the early morning tide of December 10th for his final voyage. Throughout his life, he wore many hats; son, brother, husband, father, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, captain, educator, entrepreneur, volunteer, sportsman, friend, joker, artist and veteran. His leadership qualities started early in life by becoming a leader in the Boy Scouts of Canada. Upon completing his training at the St. Margaret's Sea Training School in Hubbards, NS, he began his many adventures at sea as an ordinary seaman in the Merchant Marines. Many voyages later became a Master Mariner while with the Bedford Institute of Oceanography. From there he changed course to instruct at the NS Nautical Institute, as head of the Meteorology and Seamanship Department. He went on to work with the Department of Transport as a marine surveyor and casualty investigator. He semi-retired and established Bristol Marine Services Limited. Upon retirement, he became a successful artist and avid golfer. He was active in Digby’s Historical Society and contributed to the Admiral Digby Museum, a member of Trinity Anglican Parish Digby-Weymouth. He was a life time member of Branch #020 Digby Legion, a member of Annapolis Royal Golf and Country Club and Eden Golf Club. Ever the captain, he was strategic in charting the course for his final voyage, ensuring that his chief mate and crew were safe and secure. He leaves Joan (Tooley) his wife and chief mate for 64 years, to man the helm, assisted by the crew of; son, Chris (Cindy) Nathan & Jonathan Crowell, Christopher; daughter Pam (Bruce) Ashley (Brett Swinamer), Sarah Patterson (Ian); daughter, Lauren Mugford (Glen), Amy MacManus, Maddy (Douglas Trimper), Farran Olynych (Brian), great- granddaughter, Kaleigh. Sister, Elizabeth (Turnbull) Woolaver, nephew, Chris Duffy. Predeceased by his father, Dr. G.V. Turnbull and mother May (Roop). He will be missed by his fellow coffee club members, the native community of Bear River First Nations, where he was fondly known as "White Oak", and the community of artists. Special thanks to Dr. Colin Newman and the entire staff at the Annapolis Community Health Centre. To share some of his life experiences go to “The Elder Transcripts” interview on U-Tube. A private family service will be held at a later date. Donations in memory of Archer may be made to The Mission to Seafarers, 844 Marginal Road, Halifax, NS B3H 4M8. Messages of condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.kaulbachfamilyfuneralhome.com or to PO Box 704 Annapolis Royal, NS B0S 1A0