Thursday, August 18, 2022 at 12:00 a.m.
Barnhill, Al
With sadness, we celebrate the recent passing of AL "BARNEY" BARNHILL.
With sadness, we celebrate the recent passing of AL "BARNEY" BARNHILL.
Much could be said, in brief:
With him passes a great light of love for friends, family, sport, art, music, theatre, environmental protection, education, justice, community, peace, travel, inquiry, research, politics, and debate. These guided him through an adventure of life, starting in humble hard times in Wetaskiwin in 1938, born to loving parents Alice & Alexander "Alec" with sister Alice Jean.
Success followed his diligence and perseverance through studies in business administration up to Ph.D., university teaching career, independent small business and management consulting business.
Family life flourished for Al, falling in love with his wife Suzanne "Sue" Olsen followed by daughter Ann Marie and son John, and later his second marriage to Gretchen Mason in 1989.
Often filled with humour and light, trying to improve the situations he encountered. He leaves us peacefully, with gratitude and appreciation to friends, colleagues, and numerous loved ones. Please remember his kindness towards others, his work to benefit education, equality, peace, environment, community, and justice. Please send kind wishes and prayers for his onward journey.
Al requests donations to a meaningful cause of your choice, in lieu of flowers or gifts.
A private service has been held.
In his own words, "He did his best, now it's time to rest."
Guestbook (6)
Share a memory or send a tribute in memory of Al.
Al was a good friend. We met at U. of Washington in 1960s. I'll miss him. He was a good, hard working guy and we kept in touch over the years.
I will miss you Big Al! We had our ups and downs and you will always hold a special place in my heart!!
I lived next to this man for 2 years, and he would regularly tell my husband, who is an immigrant and employed permanent resident of Canada, to "get a job" and "go back where you came from" from his driveway. The public image does not always align with who the person truly is at home.
Dennis Chipman, Al, and I all came to the U of L at the same time, July 1983. I learned a great deal from Al and it was through him that I was able to visit Belarus, Minsk and Gomel in the 1990s. While it is his time to rest, his contributions and influence on a great many, will not be forgotten. Rest In Peace, my friend!
Professor Barnhill taught me marketing at Carleton University in 1976. Memorable class, engaging teacher, and a valuable experience for me. I am saddened by his passing and share sincere condolences with family and friends.
My condolences, John and family. I was lucky enough to get to know Al through his work with the ULeth refugee program. He was a kind and generous advisor to our group and we will miss his wisdom and guidance.