Hugh Charles Ieuan Walters
May 12, 1935 - December 4, 2025
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Hugh Charles Ieuan Walters, who passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at the age of 90.
Hugh is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Marion Anne (nee Sutherst), their children Amanda Knittel, Stephen Walters (Katie), and Andrew Walters (Jasmine), as well as his son-in-law, David Knittel. He was a cherished grandfather to Tyler, Gavin, Ella, Owen, Ethan, Oliver, and Taron. Hugh also leaves behind his siblings, Nancy Davies, Betty Thomas, and Emrys Walters. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Alice Walters, his sister Mair Griffiths (Jim), and brothers-in-law Norman Davies, John Thomas, and sister-in-law Jennifer Walters.
Born in Neath, Wales, on May 12, 1935, Hugh spent his early years in the area, attending Primary and Grammar school before beginning an apprenticeship at BP Refinery. His career as a marine engineer took him around the world, sailing with BP tankers and the New Zealand Shipping Company, where he spent 15 years, rising through the ranks to Chief Engineer. During this time, he visited various ports in a number of countries, including Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, West Africa, Dubai, the USA, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
In 1972, Hugh left the sea and joined Lloyd's Registry of Shipping as a marine engineer surveyor. His career led him to Cardiff, where he met Marion under unusual circumstances-while she was washing her car and he was carrying a tray of eggs for her father. They were married in 1975 at Cyncoed church, and their reception was in Cardiff Castle. After their honeymoon in Portugal, they flew out to Brunei, Borneo, where they spent 18 months, then to another country, Sarawak, Borneo, for another 18th months. Their first child, Amanda, was born there in 1977.
After that, Hugh was asked to go to New York for 3 years, but Lloyd's changed their minds, and it was to Cleveland, Ohio instead. Hugh and Marion arrived in the worst blizzard (the Blizzard of '78) and spent 3 months in a hotel before they were able to find a house. After 3 years, though, they felt they would try another 3 years and just never went back. From then in 1980, Stephen was born, then in 1983, Andrew.
A proud Welshman, Hugh had a deep love for rugby, especially the Scarlets and other Welsh teams. He was also an avid enthusiast of hummingbirds and nautical life, passions that shaped many family memories, especially at their lake house in Howard, Ohio. Hugh was a dedicated member of Toastmasters and volunteered for St. John Westshore, transporting patients. He also shared his love of music as a choir member at Dover Center United Church of Christ in Westlake, Ohio, and Avon Lake United Church of Christ, and enjoyed attending Cleveland Orchestra concerts with Marion.
Hugh's life was one of adventure, love, and dedication. His quiet strength, generosity, and the many friendships he made along the way will be missed by all who knew him.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, December 14, 2025 at Busch Funeral Home, 163 Avon -Belden Rd., Avon Lake Ohio 44012 from 4:00 until 8:00 pm. A memorial service will be held on Monday, December 15, 2025 at Avon Lake United Church of Christ, 32801 Electric Blvd.,
Avon Lake, Ohio 44012 at 2:30 pm. Private Interment at Resthaven Cemetery, Avon, Ohio
www.buschcares.com 440-933-3202