Randall S. "Randy" Turnbull

Randall S. Turnbull, beloved father, brother, friend, and veteran, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday November 11, 2023, with his daughter by his side. Randy was born July 9, 1945, to Marjorie (Bell) and Delvin Turnbull in Portland, Oregon. Growing up Randy enjoyed playing baseball, causing mischief around the neighborhood with his buddies, and creating memories with his cousins and stepmother’s closeknit family who all lived next door to one another. His family spent much time on the Oregon Coast at their beachside family cabin, which always held a special place in Randy’s heart. Randy graduated in 1963 from Benson Polytechnic High School. The camaraderie from these years held great significance for Randy as he maintained many of these valued friendships throughout his lifetime, and even enjoyed helping to organize Benson’s 50-year reunion for the class of ’63 back in 2013. Randy was drafted into the U.S. Army and served his country from 1966-1968 in Vietnam as an Artillery Surveyor. He also proudly ran the enlisted men’s club on base which, due to his social and witty nature, was a great use of his skills and became the source of many wartime stories later in life. Upon returning home, he earned his A.A. degree in Business Administration from Clark College in Vancouver in 1969 before moving up to Bellingham to attend Western. Randy graduated with his B.A. degree from Western Washington State College in 1972, Majoring in Business Administration-Economics and Minoring in Psychology. During these years, he enjoyed intramural sports, getting into just the right amount of trouble, and became an avid spectator of local rugby. Like his childhood years, the relationships he established as a young adult were based on a foundation of fond, often humorous memories and they remained lifelong treasures. In 1972 Randy started his garage door business, Stanley Door of Bellingham, which he independently owned and operated for over 50 years. He was charitable by nature and was first to volunteer his hand when needed. Whether the PTA, his daughter’s dance associations, or local veteran’s groups, he was involved or served on the board within numerous charitable organizations. He supported his local Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter, VVA Ron Davenport Memorial Chapter #165, and was involved in organizing their annual car show held each July. He was looking forward to entering his own ’51 Chevy, his very first car, into the show after its restoration is completed. Randy was most proud of his daughter and loved spending time together. He was the most supportive dad and could hardly have a conversation with friends, family, or even customers without speaking of her. They shared a love of local sports, laughter, and the nature that surrounds us. Randy is survived by his daughter Melanie (Adam) Flink, brother-in-law Cliff Hamblen, niece Marlaina Hamblen, nephew Jordan (Amy) Hamblen, and three great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother Marge, his father and stepmother Del and Anne Turnbull, his sister Debora Hamblen, and beloved cousins John “Whitey” and Jim “Jay” Bolzell who were like brothers to him. A common thread woven throughout each era of Randy’s lifetime is how he clearly thrived on human connections and the resulting fun that often ensued. Randy will forever be in the hearts of many, and his connections, humor, and entertaining stories will not be forgotten. A Celebration of Life will be held at the American Legion Post 7 in Bellingham, WA on July 7, 2024. All who knew Randy are welcome to attend. Donations can be made in Randy’s memory to VVA Chapter 165, PO Box 29885, Bellingham, WA 98228.

Randall S. "Randy" Turnbull

July 9, 1945 - November 11, 2023