Hugh Austin CURTIS

CURTIS, Hugh Austin Hugh Austin Curtis of Victoria, B.C. Passed away peacefully on May 27, 2014, at the Royal Jubilee Hospital at 81 years of age. He was born to Austin Ivor and Mary Helen Curtis on October 3, 1932, in Victoria, B.C. Predeceased by his wife Sheila in 2009, Hugh is survived by his three children Gary (Kathy), David, Susan, his daughter-in-law Toni, and his five grandchildren Ashten, Jay, Danielle, Taylor, and Alexandra. He will be dearly missed by many other relatives, friends, and colleagues. After graduating from Victoria High School, Hugh became a radio announcer for CJVI then CFAX, capturing the attention and respect of his listeners with his rich baritone voice and eloquent manner of speaking. In 1961, Hugh embarked upon a new journey into public office, serving first as an alderman on Saanich Council, then Reeve/Mayor of Saanich. Hugh's lifelong commitment to Saanich inspired the acquisition of parkland and the building of recreation facilities, a seniors' center, and the Cedar Hill Golf Course. Hugh was named Freeman of the Municipality of Saanich in 2002. In 1972, Hugh set his sights on provincial politics, first as a Progressive Conservative MLA for Saanich and the Islands, then the Social Credit party in 1974. During his time in provincial politics, he held three different cabinet portfolios: Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Provincial Secretary, and Minister of Finance. Hugh enjoyed his many responsibilities, and bore them with strength and class. His leadership was truly inspiring. After retirement, Hugh pursued many volunteer activities including the Variety Club of British Columbia and was a founding director and past president of the David Foster Foundation. He also devoted his time, energy, and experience to the Association of Ex-MLAs, editing and publishing the Association's newsletter, "Orders of the Day". Hugh also loved spending time with his grandchildren, gardening (especially his rhododendrons), travelling, and reading Canadian history. Those close to him enjoyed his quick-witted, dry sense of humor. We will all miss the regular telephone calls and the spirited Saturday morning political debates at J.J. Morgans. A celebration of Hugh's life will be held on Tuesday, June 10, 2014, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., at the Gordon Head Recreation Center, 4100 Lambrick Way, Saanich, B.C. Those wishing to make donations in Hugh's memory may do so to the Boys and Girls Club of Victoria, the David Foster Foundation, or the Variety Club of British Columbia. Thank you to the nurses and volunteers at Victoria Hospice.