Thomas Terrance Towns passed peacefully in his home at the age of 96 on January 31, 2026. Born in 1929 in San Luis Obispo, CA and was adopted by his loving parents Alvah Barker and Grace Elizabeth Towns from Vancouver BC.
His youth included many sailing adventures as part of his 60-year membership in the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club. Flying was the other great passion of his younger life, leading to work as a commercial pilot until he became a proud member of the Royal Canadian Air Force flying formation and fighter jets. He continued to own planes and enjoy flying until the age of 70.
In 1949 he met the love of his life Ann Louise Dick and they married in 1951. Ann Louise was not only his loving partner but his close business associate. Together with Terry’s father they bought and sold many hotels throughout BC and owned several hotels on Vancouver Island.
From 1955 to 1961 they adopted four children (Terry, Johanna, Bill and Jena (Hulda). Terry was a devoted father and husband.
At the age of 66 he found his birth family, 11 true brothers and sisters with whom he became close for the remainder of his life.
Terry is predeceased by his wife Ann Louise, his two sons Terrence Barker and William Duggan Towns and his son-in-law Joseph M Herrle.
Terry is survived by his two daughters Johanna Elizabeth Towns (Paul Lidgate), Jena Louise Herrle and grandsons Emmett and Samuel Herrle and William D. D. Towns.
Terry, who also went by Thomas or Tom will be fondly remembered by his larger-than-life spirit, his wonderful stories of flying and business deals. He loved his family and friends and loved life to the fullest. He can now rest in peace with his loving wife and two sons.
A special thanks go out to Daniel, a close friend of the family, Arlene and Mary Lou, his caregivers to the end and all the caregivers who helped Terry to be able to continue to live in his home. You all meant so much to him and he appreciated your kindness and willingness to assist him in his needs.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “Towns” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
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Sharon Callahan Lewinski
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Feliciano Rest in my friend it was nice knowing you Feliciano
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Vicki Reesor Johanna, Paul, Jena and sons, I’m so sorry for your loss! Your dad was the best landlord, the ten years I lived at Cresswell Road and I’ll always remember his kindness and our interesting conversations about aviation, ballooning, farming and many other subjects. We had the same birthday and always shared some kind of celebration on October 9th. I miss those days and our little community, with Terry B right next door, your Mom and Dad just up the drive and the beautiful property where I spent so many blessed days with my horses, dogs and cats. Much love and celebration for a live well-lived!
To My Big Brother, it was late in life when you found us and was a true blessing.
They times we got to visit each other and our families together.
Love and will miss our phone calls..
Your Baby Sister, Sharon Ann.