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Nicholas Hughes Obituary
Nick’s sister, Frieda, released a statement quoted in the English press early Monday: “It is with profound sorrow that I must announce the death of my brother, Nicholas Hughes, who died by his own hand on Monday 16th March 2009 at his home in Alaska. He had been battling depression for some time.�
Nicholas Hughes found a home in Fairbanks for much of his adult life, discovering a perfect place to pursue the full depth of his lifelong curiosity about fish and the outdoors.
Both of his parents were masters of the written word. His mother died from suicide 46 years ago. His father, Ted, was the poet laureate of Britain from 1984 until his death in 1998. Ted Hughes shared his son’s love of fishing, making several trips to Alaska.
After earning a bachelor of science degree and a master of science degree at Oxford University in England, where Nick spent his childhood, Hughes became a prominent fisheries scientist at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where he earned a doctorate in 1991 and joined the faculty.
He made lasting friendships in Fairbanks with those who shared his inventive interests in such varied pursuits as stream ecology, pottery, woodworking, boating, bicycling, gardening and cooking the perfect pecan pie. Nick guided many people in the winter to spots along the Tanana to savor the art of burbot fishing through the ice.
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Memories and Condolences
for Nicholas Hughes
Tubby T
April 13, 2009
Wonderful papers ..a gentle life!
Jill Farringdon
April 12, 2009
Having read the poetry of TH and SP all my adult life, with the inevitable references to “Nick”, news of this tragedy literally ‘took my breath away’. Even though I cannot help feeling that he would have hated a total stranger commenting on such a private act, may I send, to Frieda and Nicholas’s partner Christine, the grieved sympathy of one who has also suffered from this terrible illness.
April 3, 2009
Only one ship is seeking us,
a black-
Sailed unfamiliar,towing at
her back
A huge and birdless silence.
Bob Fournier, Ph.D.
March 31, 2009
My deepest sympathy to Frieda and all those who knew and loved Nick. As a "suicidologist" of over 30 years time, I realize the anguish that this loss generates. I just finished reading a book of Nick's dad's letters and how, near his death, Ted Hughes spoke of feeling liberated and free by risking to speak out about his loss (in his book of poetry, "Birthday Letters") versus continuing to hold in, as he had done since Nick's mother's death. I sensed that he had wished this same liberation to occur in life for his children. My thoughts and prayers go out to all loved ones, that they may adapt in a healthy fashion and discover a "gift" for their own unique life after this tragic loss.
Dr. Bob
Laurie Eckhout
March 28, 2009
I've been a fan of both Sylvia and Ted's writing for many years. Their's is a legacy that far outreached the poems on the page. It was hard not to get involved with their 'lives' and that included their children. I'm glad Nicholas found a place to call home here in Alaska where privacy abounds. I hope Frieda is able to maintain her privacy and continues to stay strong and determined. I read that she is an avid gardner. Hope it brings some solice. I'm very sorry for her loss and the loss of Nicholas' friends.
John Pressley
March 28, 2009
I didnt know Nicholas Hughes, but I felt I knew him from the poetry of his parents and in particular the published letters of Ted Hughes-hence I feel something of an emotional loss for someone I never met. Maybe Nicholas is re-united with his Mother and Father, rest in peace.
Haakon Hop
March 26, 2009
This is quite a tragic exit, Nick, leaving us remaining earthlings with so much of your pain. You were my very best friend during our graduate study days at the University of Alaska, and I really appreciated our scientific discussions and long arguments on how to test hypotheses and conduct research on Arctic grayling. I guess the fish will also miss your homemade flies and wiggly worms. One of your favorite expressions was: "Look at those suckers - they are hoovering the bottom!". We were also cabin neighbours on Farmers Loop in Fairbanks and spent hours by the barrel stove when it was 50 below outside. I recall some lines from Bob Dylan's dream: "I wish, I wish, I wish in vain. That we could sit simply in that room again. Ten thousand dollar at the drop of a hat. I'd give it all gladly if our lives could be like that".
Kristie Yunker
March 26, 2009
Nick, I'm sorry that you were alone when you left this world. I'm sorry that you felt such despair, and that lost in that all too familiar haze, you were unable to call your friends to help guide you through the darkness. I'm sorry that your voice is forever gone. I hope that you've found relief and peace at last. You'll never know how much you will be missed.
Kacy Stafford
March 26, 2009
Very sad news. I lived in Fairbanks for 6 years, only met Mr Hughes once, but he was a very dynamic person, who left a wonderful legacy for all who love nature.
He will be greatly missed.
Condolences to his sister and companion, and all his friends.
Smita Agarwal
March 25, 2009
Condolences to Frieda.
Prof. Smita Agarwal
English Dept.
University of Allahabad, India.
PhD on Sylvia Plath, 1988.
Peter Holland
March 25, 2009
Nick - You were a star at Oxford all those years ago... a brilliant inspiration to the rest of us. I was privileged to have you as a friend. And we never did get that fishing trip together in Alaska.
Bill Wilson
March 25, 2009
I'm still trying to grasp what happened. Nick invited me to lecture about marine fishery management in one of his classes a few years ago. I learned about his interests in how fish select microhabitats in streams, and his passion for observing fish behavior, particularly with underwater cameras. He was so enthusiastic and excited - I'm so sorry to hear that he's gone. Can't believe it.
Jean McCollister
March 25, 2009
Very sad to learn this. I knew Nick at Oxford. I heard later he had moved to Alaska and always hoped he had found lasting happiness and fulfillment there.
Condolences to his friends and family.
Eve Brashaw
March 25, 2009
Deepest sympathy for Frieda. So sad that Nicholas suffered so dreadfully from such a terrible depressive illness. Thoughts and heart with those who loved him.
Paul Falkner
March 25, 2009
Wow what a huge shock this was to me
Nick and i knew each other in school together we were very close friends back then and i remember the time i took him sailing at my parents place in England.
You will be sadly missed dear friend may god bless you and may you be at peace
Dave Parker
March 25, 2009
The world is an emptier place today. We will miss you Nick. My deepest condolences to his loved ones.
Cathy
March 25, 2009
So very, very sad.
My heartfelt sympathy to Nick's family and friends, especially poor Frieda.
Anna Scopano
March 25, 2009
My thoughts go to his sister Frieda, the rest of his family and his partner who have lost such a wonderful, talented and loving person.
Rest in peace, dear Nicholas.
Hope that are some pike for you, wherever you are.
D D
March 24, 2009
My sincere condolences to Frieda on this sad occassion. Most of us go through life with some pain and some sorrow and in many of us, the sorrow can be magnified. May God grant Nicholas's soul peace and rest and I hope that you emerge from this tragedy in peace.
Elinor Hartsell
March 24, 2009
My thoughts and prayers go out to you, Frieda, as I recall my admiration for your parents when I was in graduate school years ago. With five brothers, I understand the loss you are experiencing now.
Kathy
March 24, 2009
I am heartbroken.
Isabella McFarlin
March 24, 2009
I am certainly very sorry. My own brother died in not dissimilar circumstances last summer. I am so sorry to think of how this must be for Ms. Hughes-- it is hard to be the last.
Mary Dalton
March 24, 2009
Wish this didn't happen. I've long been an admirer of both his parents' work, but I always liked to think of Frieda and Nick having good lives of their own. Thanks for an article that focused on Nick in such a positive way. RIP
Professor P Phelan
March 24, 2009
Sympathy and healing to all who loved Professor Hughes. I admired the work of both of his parents. Such a sad story, but I am comforted by the remarks of his students, whom he seems to have loved as well as he loved fish.
Jacob White
March 24, 2009
I am so sorry for the lost of your dear loved one. It's comforting to know that God cares for all of us and losing a loved one is something we cannot get used to. The Bible gives us hope that one day we can see our dear loved one again. On behalf of all mankind Jesus surrender his soul for many. John 15:13 says “No one has love greater than this, that someone should surrender his soul on behalf of his friends.” Truly I am sorry to hear of the loss of your dear loved one and I hope these few words will bring you comfort and hope.
Kristine Lee
March 24, 2009
I first met Nick when he was an undergrad at Oxford and came to Fairbanks for the summer and helped on my graduate research on grayling. We kept in touch off and on over the years. He will be missed greatly - personally and professionally - by everyone who knew him. My heart goes out to Frieda and Christine and those closest to him. May he rest in peace.
Barb Knapton
March 24, 2009
Nick was my fisheries professor in 1992 at UAF, a gifted person full of curiosity and fun, who loved grayling and fly-fishing. I always imagined him still up there in his beloved north woods. So sad that he is gone.
beth mckeel
March 24, 2009
I wish I could have met you and introduced you to my son. He loves fish and the outdoors.I'd have done anything for you to have been an influence in my sons life.
ioanna vraka
March 24, 2009
i wish he finds the tranquility and the piece in his soul. What a sad story, i wish his family to remember him with love and keep him in your heart for ever.
D. S.
March 24, 2009
I pray that all who knew and loved Nick find comfort in the abundant memories you have made with him and that Nick has finally found peace. Our world is a better place because of him. His legacy will live on forever.
Z.H. Bhatia
March 23, 2009
I used to wonder what became of Sylvia Plath's children, and after a bit of search on the net I learned that Frieda was a painter and Nicholas a reclusive marine biologist in Alaska. I sent the info to a friend with a deep interest in literature; she was quite fascinated. This was about two years ago. So when I, in faraway India, read of the death of Dr Hughes it was like learning of the death of someone you knew. My condolence to all those who mourn his passing.
Marco Gamberini
March 23, 2009
I am so sorry that such a man has passed on.
I hope that you are at peace now.
Laura Argiri
March 23, 2009
To Frieda Hughes - I am so sorry about your brother. I love your family's poetry - your father's, your mother's, and yours - and wish you healing and resilience and, beyond this sorrow, happiness.
Shirley Berg
March 23, 2009
To Frieda, Christine and many friends, I'm so sorry for your unbearable loss. May Nick rest in peace.
Rebecca Molyneaux
March 23, 2009
Christine, I wish you gentle thoughts and caring hands to guide you as you grieve. Find solace in the knowledge that he is at peace now.
Steven Fechner
March 23, 2009
Tragic for one so young and talented. My thoughts are with his numerous friends and family.
Christina
March 23, 2009
His loss is a great sadness, individually and for the world. I think even the fish must weep.
Lauren Davis
March 23, 2009
May Christ's peace be with you...
Alina Antonetti
March 23, 2009
Here is a life that began and ended with suicide. But these events are just sad punctuation. In between there is a brave life, filled with a wonder for beings that swim elegantly in the ocean and streams. A life well lived no matter its end.
Kathleen Menke
March 23, 2009
Clearly an exceptional person. Love and condolences to all friends and family. Peace to Nicholas.
Jim Fritz
March 23, 2009
Rest In Peace.
Tobias Baskin
March 23, 2009
Rest in peace Nicholas. It seems this time you are the one who got away. The rest of us are all the poorer for having lost you.
Karen Sturnick
March 23, 2009
Nick's authenticity was rare, appreciated and memorable.
Holding his family and friends in the Light.
Maria Mosquea
March 23, 2009
I was secretly hoping that like your mother, father, and sister had done, you too would've found your poetic voice for the world to enjoy for generations. I'm sure it would have stood the test of time. May you rest in peace. My heart goes out to Frieda Hughes, who has lost the only link she had left to her mother and father. May you find strength in the wonderful memories of your loved ones and in your art.
Yvette Gottshall
March 23, 2009
My sympathy to Nick's partner, Christine, his sister, Frieda and the rest of his family, friends and colleagues. I grieve with you in your loss and wish for you solace in your memories of him, your best memories.
Suzanne Maxwell
March 23, 2009
My condolences to Nick's family in their time of sorrow. Nick had a passion and amazing talent for research. I enjoyed working with him both in field camps and at conferences. His passing leaves a void that will not be filled.
Virginia Hughes
March 23, 2009
Condolences to his partner, his sister and friends.
May you look up to the Alaskan sky
and see a new shining star
at night.
Andrew Holt
March 23, 2009
May you rest in peace, from one Englishman to another.
Jacqueline Florian
March 23, 2009
My heart goes out to Nicholas's sister, family and friends. I understand to some extent the great pain, because I too had a brother who died by his own hand a few years ago. He suffered from depresson. He was a gentle soul with some similar circumstances as an infant to Mr. Hughes. He also had a great love for fishing and nature. Life will never be the same for the ones left behind but it is possible to move on; knowing he is at Peace. I am very sorry for your loss.
Kate Teale
March 23, 2009
Dear Nick
I wish I could tell you how sad I am. It is such a loss of for all of us who loved you, and so painful to think of you in despair. I hope you are at peace.
with love, Kate
Shehla Anjum
March 23, 2009
I hope Nicholas was able to find some solace in the spaces of Alaska and in his work during his time here.
Beth Fana
March 23, 2009
a future was lost yesterday
as easily and irretrievably
as a tennis ball at twilight
(S.Plath)
ach, du
(S.Plath)
Heather Swinney
March 23, 2009
May God bless all who grieve with comfort and Peace.
Nick will live in our hearts and prayers.
Kim Dziurman
March 23, 2009
I'm sorry that I never met you, but only knew you through the poetry of your parents, as you seemed to be an intelligent, courageous and gentle man. I was happy to know that you had found a home in Alaska, far away from the blitzkrieg of PR about your parents, doing what you loved. I'm sorry there was not enough there - or anywhere - to sustain you and bring you contentment. I hope you have found some measure of peace now and that your living family and friends are granted the same in time.
Will Bishop
March 23, 2009
Nick Hughes was a really cool and interesting guy. He taught my dad, me, and my brother a decent amount about fishing; he took us out on the river behind his house and showed us his methods for catching burbot. His life sounded very fulfilling; I was very sad to hear he had died. Rest in peace.
Art Jones
March 23, 2009
It is tragic; depression need not lead to suicide. The world would be a better place with Nick Hughes alive.
Margie Summers
March 23, 2009
My deepest sympathy for Nicholas' friends and family.
Debby Burwen
March 23, 2009
Thanks for your contagious energy and enthusiasm for science. It will be greatly missed by many of us.
Val De Beer
March 23, 2009
I am so sorry that such a gentle man has passed on.
I hope that you are at peace now knowing that the memories of you are good and beautiful.....
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