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Hugh McGowan Obituary
Beloved son of his late parents, Michael and Peggy McGowan of Ireland. Hugh
is survived by his siblings Annemarie and her husband John Walsh of South Boston, Caroline McGowan of Boston, Mike and his wife, April McGowan of San Francisco and Peggy and her husband, Terrence Gaide of South Boston. Uncle to Adrienne and Michael Flemming (BFD), Tighe and Ailís Gaide. Grand uncle to Bridie and Aidagh Linehan.
Hugh's life passion was his music. His sweet childhood memory was singing, You are my sunshine, with his Mom, Peggy. His Mom was a talented fiddle player, and passed when Hugh was six years old. He felt most connected to his mother through his music.
Hugh was a gorgeous singer/songwriter and music producer. Touring in the US and overseas with iconic bands. Creator of the Open Mic at the Burren in Somerville. Hugh was happiest on-stage singing and performing with his friends, whom he treated like family.
Hugh worked for years in restaurants, as a chef and bartender. An opening staff member of the House of Blues in Cambridge, he moved to California and worked at the House of Blues in Los Angeles. Hugh cherished his memories and friendships made there. Hugh was the sweetest and most gentle soul. His kindness was reflected in his mentoring of aspiring musicians and young chefs. He will be remembered for his stunning blue eyes, playing in an Irish session and fond memories shared of his summers in Ireland and the Kerrville folk festival.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to the visiting hours Friday from 4-8 PM at Keohane Funeral Home, QUINCY. A funeral Mass will be Saturday at 10:30 AM at Sacred Heart Church, Quincy. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Hugh's name to North Quincy High School Band, 316 Hancock Street, North Quincy, MA 02171. Burial will be private. Arrangements are being made to have a musical celebration of life for Hugh at a later date. Please see www.Keohane.com for online condolences.
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lucy fleetwood
March 14, 2021
i will always remember the best road trip 2019 october seeing my dad play on canada quebec and toronto and then almost getting stuck in canada cuz i forgot my american passport!!! hugh laughed and was such an amazing himan i miss him so much.
Jennifer Kirklys
March 13, 2021
Love you. Miss you.
Chris Thompson
March 13, 2021
I am so grateful to you, Hugh, for sharing your talents in songwriting, performance, and for organizing opportunities for others to perform too. You are such a talented writer and performer and also have been such a kind and welcoming host for other performers. I feel lucky to have met you, to have heard you perform and to have shared the stage with you. I'm sending your family and community my condolences as we remember all the kindness and creativity you shared with us.
Doug Holder
March 9, 2021
https://www.thesomervilletimes.com/archives/106543#more-106543 article in The Somerville Times about Hugh
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Rachael Sage
March 6, 2021
Rachael Sage
March 6, 2021
Rachael Sage
March 6, 2021
Beautiful Hugh, you had that unique ability to make each of us feel fully observed, heard and beloved. You were one of the most talented, generous and altogether honest and thoughtful human beings I've ever met and I already miss you dearly. Love and condolences to your family and all who knew and loved you. Yours was a life cut short too soon, but your memory will forever be a blessing. Xoxo
Jenni Alpert
March 6, 2021
You added to so many people’s lives and made a difference. My memories with you are years long and I will miss you terribly. So much love to you, Hugh.
Amy Tai
March 6, 2021
Some of my most wonderful musical memories are playing with Hugh back in the 90’s. I listened to his CD over and over and over, and loved every track on it. I marveled at his talent and his sweetness. He will be deeply missed.
Marinda Snow
March 5, 2021
Hugh McGowan weaved an intricate web of melodic love during his time here on this plane. When I think of Hugh I think of the community he cultivated; connecting artists, lovers, and dreamers with other artists, lovers, and dreamers. He brought people together... and though he'll no longer be in the group shot, his spirit and love light will be inside of us all... all of us lucky enough to be interlaced making up this incredibly beautiful web of Hugh's community. I cry not just for the loss of my friend but the loss of yours.
RTH
March 5, 2021
Jessica Maher
March 5, 2021
One in a million. The truest friend anyone had. Will miss you always ❤
Rick S
March 4, 2021
I didn't know Hugh well, but we had some interesting conversations during some of the singer-songwriter nights at the Burren and even on the busiest nights I hardly had to wait for another Harpoon IPA. Good guy, sorry to hear of his passing.
Emily Schneider
March 4, 2021
MaryKay Duffy
March 4, 2021
I will always miss Hugh, a kind and considerate man. A gifted musician who inspired all who followed him.
Heather Waters
March 4, 2021
Heather Waters
March 4, 2021
Heather Waters
March 4, 2021
Lori S
March 4, 2021
Not the best quality photo, but it's one that is special to me. I met Hugh in high school, along with Mike, and this image captures how I always remember them. I've been so blessed to have called Hugh friend.
Lori Sartre
March 4, 2021
Hugh truly made his mark on this planet and in the hearts and souls of so many. He will live on in our memories, the tales we tell, and the songs that we sing. I will miss you terribly.
Heather Reece
March 4, 2021
Ingrid Schroffner
March 4, 2021
Hugh was an effervescent spirit. He had a wonderful way of bringing folks together with music, whether veteran or experienced musicians. His skilled guitar fingers and clear tenor were lovely to behold, whether in his own tunes or with others. He adored The Push Stars and I recall him touring with them and playing at the Hatch Shell. He will be much missed. Rest easy, Hugh. Aloha, Chiemi
Roisin McGowan
March 4, 2021
May you Rest In Peace
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