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Hugh MacPherson Obituary

MACPHERSON, Hugh Gordon September 13, 1945 August 9, 2010 "To watch us dance is to hear our hearts speak " Hugh was born in Orangeville, Ontario, and died under the extraordinarily attentive and sensitive care of The Victoria Hospice Society, to whose nurses, counsellors and doctors we extend our deepest gratitude. Many people who heard Hugh's heart speak were greatly influenced by his dance, both in life and in the grace and dignity of his death. As dancer/choreographer, performance artist, massage therapist and astute day trader, he will be remembered and appreciated by all his friends and family for his never failing playfulness, his deeply contemplative nature, his quiet generosity and his joy in the close observation of everything that surrounded him. His most committed engagement, and the source of many of his most enduring friendships, came with his pursuit of improv dance. It was here that his deepest self found the clearest expression exploring a range of forms including trickster, clown, philosopher and monk. It drew people of all ages to him, and became inspirational when his struggle to live transformed into his last dance, a dance he performed with a grace we will never forget. Hugh will continue to dance and perform a little mischief in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. If you wish to honour Hugh's memory with a donation, please consider the Victoria Hospice Society, or any other organization dedicated to safeguarding the quality of life. A Celebration of Hugh's life will take place from 6pm to 9pm at his home, the Sea Rose, 1250 Dallas Road, on Thursday, August 19th. Condolences may be offered at www.mccallbros.com 599752
Published by The Times Colonist on Aug. 14, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Hugh MacPherson

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3 Entries

Mary-Lee Merz

September 12, 2010

To the family & friends of Hugh Macpherson,
I feel blessed to have had Hugh as a loving friend for many years. I remember his sensual nature, his high regard for the creative process,and his sense of playfulness. His generousity of spirit has touched me deeply and influenced me in ways that continue to unfold and enrich my life. I will continue to carry Hugh in my heart and nurture my creativity to honour his spirit and his high regard for the most complex dance of all dances . . . the improvisition that is life.
As I contemplate the natural wonder and movement around me, I will remember Hugh and feel his presence.

Les Merz

August 18, 2010

To the family & friends of Hugh Gordon Macpherson,

Hugh was a large and endearing part of my life as a teenager and young adult. As the story goes, my big sis, Mary-Lee Merz, returned from Switerzerland after studying French for several years. However, she did not return alone and had a man in tow. His name was Hugh. Following his first visit to Mary-Lee's childhood home in Tacoma, Washington, to meet "the Merz family, Hugh became one of the gang! His easy manner and obvious love for Mary-Lee won us over, including my father Lee, and that's saying a lot! As the years went by there were many wonderful times spent with Hugh and I will forever hold these memories near and dear to my heart. He made such an impact on me and I feel rich for having known such a lovely guy.

I'd like to share some thoughts and observances about the Hugh that I will always remember! He was kind, witty, gentle and intelligent. A great conversationalist with an interesting perspective! He also possessed the curiosity and wonder of a child! If he picked up an apple to eat, before doing so, he would first study it and appreciate its shape and texture.

Another amazing attribute about Hugh was how multi-talented he was. He was just simply very good at most everything that he did, whether it be building a beautiful stained glass chess set or performing a dance. I'm sure that he was an outstanding day trader too (as a stock trader of over 50 years my dad would've admired Hugh's entry entry into the world of capitalism)! We've all heard the expression "jack of all trades, master of none." Whatever Hugh chose to do, he did well! He was also quite unique and common at the same time!

There will never be another human being like Hugh Macpherson and the world will not be the same without him. His laughter, his smile, his creativity, his intelligence and his love for his fellow man have made quite an impact on many people. In his own way, on his own terms, he made a difference to all that knew and loved him! What a gift from one friend to another, and how grateful I shall always remain! Hugh lives on.......

Sharon Macpherson (Pelech)

August 14, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with all of Hugh's family and friends.

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Memorial Events
for Hugh MacPherson

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.