Captain Brian James Turrell

Captain Brian James Turrell, born on March 10, 1930, in Lowestoft, Suffolk, England, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2025, in Lake Oswego, Oregon, at the age of 94. A devoted husband, father, and respected figure in the maritime industry, Captain Turrell’s legacy is one of dedication to his family, his distinguished career, and an adventurous life that spanned continents. His personal travels took him to Egypt, Turkey, China, Korea, and across Europe.

Brian was the beloved husband of Catherine (née O'Connell), whom he married in 1960 in Nova Scotia, and a loving father to their sons, John and Morgan. He was predeceased by his son Morgan, whose memory is cherished by the Turrell family.

A short time after Brian and Catherine were married, they returned to England, where their first son, John, was born. The family then emigrated together to California, where their second son, Morgan, was born.

Brian’s illustrious maritime career began after he graduated from Maritime College in England. He joined the British Merchant Marine, starting as a cadet and quickly rising through the ranks to achieve the title of Master Mariner. His career took him around the world, and after emigrating to Canada, he worked on the Great Lakes. Brian and Catherine later returned briefly to England before settling in California in 1963. In California, Brian worked for General Steamship in San Francisco, then moved to Long Beach, where he joined Harper, Robinson & Co.

Eventually, Captain Turrell moved to Oregon, where he took a position with Jones Stevedoring Company. Over the next 47 years, he rose to the position of Senior Vice President, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues and contributing significantly to the company’s global presence. After officially retiring at 70 years old he continued working for the company part-time. Because he enjoyed what he was doing. Jones Stevedoring company was so amazing to Brian and his family.

Brian was one of ten children born to Grace and Walter Bertie Turrell. His father, Walter, a war hero and fisherman, tragically lost his life in 1940 when a mine exploded offshore, while he was working aboard the fishing vessel The Newhaven. Walter’s bravery left an indelible mark on the family, and Brian carried his father’s memory with great pride throughout his life.

A committed and active member of his community, Captain Turrell also mentored many young professionals entering the shipping industry, ensuring that his knowledge and passion would continue to influence future generations.

Captain Brian Turrell will be remembered not only for his distinguished career but also for his love and dedication to his family. His adventurous spirit, unwavering work ethic, and generosity will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Brian is survived by his wife, Catherine; his son, John; his siblings, Arthur and Kenneth and Diane, and many dear friends and colleagues. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of the Lake Church in Lake Oswego, Oregon, on March 22, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Those wishing to attend virtually may go Our Lady of the Lake’s Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/OLLCatholicChurch/

A Celebration of Life, to honor Brian, will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to:

St. Vincent de Paul Society, Salvation Army, or the United States Merchant Marine Academy, by sending a letter to:

VADM Joanna M. Nunan, Superintendent

U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

300 Steamboat Road

Kings Point, NY 11024

Your letter should state that the gift is “restricted to the Midshipman Morale Fund” and is in memory of Captain Brian Turrell, father of Captain Morgan Turrell, Class of 1987.