Students and their parents were quick to establish a memorial outside Oliver Elementary School last weekend upon hearing the tragic news that Principal Barton Tumlinson passed away suddenly on January 23. The high-fiving administrator was known for his gentle, kind-hearted spirit.
Lyonel Doherty photo
Barton Tumlinson – the principal known for giving students high-fives and making them feel on top of the world – passed away last Friday to the shock of grieving pupils and staff at Oliver Elementary School.
Most of the community was rocked with sadness on Monday when the news circulated.
“This is a devastating loss to our entire school community and district. Mr. Tumlinson was a kind, visible and gentle leader who was loved and respected by students, parents and staff,” said school board chair Marieze Tarr.
Tumlinson reportedly fell ill on Friday, Jan. 23 and was taken to hospital where he died. The cause of his death has not been publicly confirmed.
Tumlinson, who had an uncanny resemblance to Hollywood actor Owen Wilson, was known for his gentle spirit and the ability to make his students think better of themselves. He often quoted Gandhi by saying, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
Karen Sinclair, vice-principal of Oliver Elementary, said staff, students and parents will miss Tumlinson immensely.
“He was an amazing person and principal with a heart of gold.”
Sinclair said students made posters in memory of their beloved administrator, who was more a friend than an authority figure.
Students dedicated a wall in the school as a tribute to Tumlinson. They traced their hands on paper, cut them out and glued them to poster boards with heartfelt messages.
“You always told me to believe in myself, and I will always keep that with me,” wrote Muskann Sidhu.
“You were the best principal ever. You will be loved and missed forever,” Jennifer wrote.
“I will always remember our secret handshake,” said Japleen.
Someone else wrote, “Thank you for all that you did for OES. We feel inspired by your goals and words of wisdom.”
With love, Ireland wrote, “You were the best principal I ever had. I will miss you very much. But you were also my best friend; you kept all my secrets.”
Bianca said they will never forget Tumlinson’s caring laugh and loving smile, while Enola said she and the principal were always best friends. “No one can ever replace you.”
Preet said he will always miss Tumlinson’s high-fives.
Miss M said the important thing about Tumlinson was that he had a big heart.
Another student wrote: “It’s better to die on your feet than live on your knees . . . and that’s what you did.”
Someone else wrote, “We are lucky to have felt your light.”
Emma said “Mr. T” was there whenever she was sad.
Mrs. Marsel said Tumlinson’s kindness radiated throughout the school, and she thanked him for supporting the aboriginal program.
Last weekend students and parents dedicated a small area at the front entrance of the school, where they placed flowers and cards.
Fiona wrote, “Sometimes spirit outgrows our bodies and is set free to fill the hearts and souls of everyone you touched.”
Staff and students started their day on Monday with high-fives at the front door, just as Tumlinson always did. (He would have wanted that.)
The school set up a drop-in counselling centre for students who needed extra support in dealing with their grief. Sinclair said many students utilized the centre on Monday.
Tumlinson began his employment with School District 53 in August 2009 as vice principal of Similkameen Elementary Secondary School. On August 1, 2013, he was appointed principal of Oliver Elementary School.
He made endless contributions outside of his administrative role, including technology in the classroom and leading the implementation of the new student information system. He was destined to give a talk to parents this week on Internet safety for children.
“Barton cared deeply about his students, staff and the district. He was a loyal friend and mentor and will be deeply missed by everyone,” said Tarr. “Our hearts and prayers go to Barton’s wife, children, extended family, co-workers and friends at this difficult time.”
Tumlinson was a big supporter of making students feel connected at school and giving them ownership. In fact, he allowed students to run all of the school’s assemblies. This boosted their self-esteem.
At Monday’s Town council meeting, Councillor Jack Bennest made the comment: “The kids absolutely loved this fellow who went way too quickly.”
A funeral service will take place on Saturday, Jan. 31 at 2 pm at Penticton Alliance Church.
Lyonel Doherty
Oliver Chronicle
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- Lyonel Doherty photo
