Hugh BLAKENEY

Hugh Blakeney was unique in every way. A kind, loving, and principled person, he put his family above all else. He passed away suddenly on Wednesday, March 20th, in Ottawa. Born in Regina, Saskatchewan (a loyal Roughriders fan his whole life), Hugh spent the last 42 years in Ottawa where he worked as a lawyer in private practice and for the New Democratic Party for Ed Broadbent, Alexa McDonough, and Howard Hampton. Hugh had a passion for history, politics, and mathematics, and taught his children to see both sides of every argument. This passion for knowledge led him to a love of travel, which he shared with his wife, Mary, and their family. Together, they created lasting memories of trips taken across the globe. It also meant he would stride through the Glebe, cloth tote bag in hand, to the public library to nurture his fascination for the world around him. Equally adventurous in his cooking, he was often found in the kitchen making those he loved happy by preparing great meals. He loved the small joys in life, such as paddling a canoe and holding a newborn baby in his arms. For Hugh, few things were better than a game of bridge, a long train trip, a shady spot, and a good pair of wool socks. Hugh will be deeply missed by his wife, Mary Ormerod; and children, Victoria (Jonathan), Stephen (Robyn), Isobel (Katie), and Christopher. A committed and loving father, he was exceptionally proud of his children and delighted in his granddaughters Elouise and Merrill. He will be remembered fondly by his mother, Anne, and siblings, Barbara, David, and Margaret (Stan). Hugh will be missed for his quirky humour, his brilliant mind, and his kindness. His wife and children are heartbroken by this loss as are his family, friends, and the Adelaide Street community. A celebration of life will be held in his honour in June. Please contact the family for further details, which will be available in late April.