March 17, 1931 – February 16, 2026
Hugh passed peacefully, surrounded by loved ones on Family Day. It’s not easy to summarize a long and well lived life; but we can try.
Hugh exemplified excellence, curiosity, dedication, original thought and unflinching honesty. His analytical mind was powered by inexhaustible energy and a thirst for the truth.
He was a celebrated Scientist and Engineer, a Mapmaker, an Author, Sailor, Guitar player, Luthier, Teacher, Mentor, Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Athlete, Coach, Fisherman, Canoeist, Outdoorsman, Ham Radio Operator, Ski Patrol, Artist and Friend.
Hugh was also a relentless purveyor of puns, a scribe of witty limericks both absurd and profound.
Hugh only had one standard: High. “If a thing is worth doing, it’s worth doing well.” No half measures, only full steam ahead. And if a fool happened to be in the way, beware.
All these pursuits and interests were informed by an intense love of life and insatiable curiosity about everything. His focus was such that interruption was almost impossible, and certainly ill-advised. When he emerged from one deep dive he was always ready for the next. Any question deserved a thorough answer; and if one wasn’t immediately at hand, so much the better; more to learn.
Sylvia, his one true love of over 70 years, will temper her huge loss with memories, stories and gratitude for a shared life full of adventure, family and joy.
He will be deeply missed by children Bruce (Susan), Kelly (George), Lynn (Paul); and grandchildren Eric (Elizabeth), Graham (Sarah), Tom (Irina) and Derek (Julie). Six greatgrandchildren carry fond memories of their wonderful and ancient ‘Bapa Hugh’.
In lieu of flowers feel free to make a donation in Hugh’s honour to either the Lady Minto Hospital Foundation or the Salt Spring Island Foundation. Thank you.