A retired firefighter and well-known member of the Richmond community has passed away after a tragic accident at home.
Described as a “Jack of all trades, a master of none,” Glenn Tinkley took a fall down the stairs of his Steveston home on March 26, before losing his life, aged 67, two days later.
His daughter, Michelle Goodwin, told the Richmond News via email that her much-loved dad was “a doer. When it came to getting things done, he was the first person to show up, line up, and offer his help-- whether it be on the job or volunteering in the community.”
Goodwin said Tinkley’s family was by his side last weekend, when arrangements were made to donate his organs, her dad’s last wish.
“He was always saving and helping others,” added Goodwin, noting that her dad was a lifelong resident of Richmond who was “incredibly involved in the community.”
Such was the depth of feeling in the local community for Tinkley, a drive-by tribute was paid last week near his home, where nearly 200 vehicles participated to pay their respects.
“The weather called for rain but the sun came out just as I suspected dad would have it,” described Goodwin. “It was beautiful.”
She told the News how her dad served on Richmond Fire-Rescue (RFR) for 37 years and was an avid member of the Steveston Historical Society.
“We have been flooded with condolences from hundreds of other Richmond families and friends this week,” Goodwin said.
“So many people looked up to my dad - he was a prime example of a top citizen in Richmond and B.C.”
An RFR battalion chief, Tinkley spent his retirement tending to the waters and rescuing stranded boats while operating C-Tow out of Steveston.
Tinkley – who, according to his family, had a love for golfing, curling, boating, fishing and “watching the Canucks lose” - is survived by his wife, Terry, son Clayton and daughter Michelle (Dalton).
A formal memorial service and celebration of life will be held in the future once public health orders are eased.
In lieu of flowers, Tinkley’s family requests that you “take five minutes out of your day to register as an organ donor at transplant.bc.ca.”
