Community activist.
Born on 22 January 1951, son of Percy Alan Beachell and Doris Helen Turnbull (1926-1986), he grew up on the family farm at Rosser. In 1972, he received a Political Science degree from the University of Manitoba then worked successively for the Children’s Home of Winnipeg, Society for Manitobans with Disabilities, Manitoba Advisory Council on Recreation for the Handicapped, and Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation.
In 1982, he lived in Winnipeg until returning to the farm. Two years later, he found his calling with the Council of Canadians with Disabilities where he worked for over 30 years in advocacy, law reform, public education, litigation, and international development. He served on advisory committees to Statistics Canada, Elections Canada, Canada Revenue Agency, and Canadian Museum for Human Rights. He was an active member of Rosser Grosse Isle United Church, serving as organist and arranged music for services and concerts.
In recognition of his community service, he received a Patrick Worth Award from People First of Canada, a National President’s Award from the Canadian Mental Health Association, and an honorary doctorate from Carleton University (2019).
He died on 6 December 2024.
Obituary, Winnipeg Free Press, 14 December 2024.
We thank Keven Van Camp for providing additional information used here.
This page was prepared by Gordon Goldsborough.
Page revised: 16 December 2024
Memorable Manitobans
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