Hugh Dignon

Dignon, Hugh A.
Hugh Alexander Dignon, aged 78, of Newtown, formerly Brookfield, died on Wednesday August 20th at Danbury Hospital from complications arising from a stroke. Hugh was born in Glasgow, Scotland on May 16, 1936 to Hugh and Jean Dignon (née Kinloch) and moved to the US in the early 60s. Earning a PhD, he taught literature and journalism for most of his career at Queens College, CUNY. A keen intellect, he knew Latin, spoke fluent French and Spanish and dabbled in Italian, German and Mandarin. His thirst for learning (and fierce independence) is exemplified in his carpentry and DIY skills. Primarily regarded for his sometimes notorious adventures, Hugh was a relentless traveler. In his teens he cycled to France to work the vineyards, he later took multiple cross-continental road trips, spanning months, with family across Europe, South America, Asia and North America. He spent years teaching in France and China, and lived in Spain to author a book. His photographs of art, nature, architecture and indigenous peoples were among his favorites. Locally, Hugh loved walking and was a frequent visitor to Huntington, Lake Lillinonah and Macedonia State Park. A soccer and tennis enthusiast, he proudly supported Glasgow Celtic all his life, and played soccer with the Newtown Salty Dogs for many years. He enjoyed the music, dancing and whiskey of Ireland and Scotland, and was a season ticket holder for the New York City Ballet. He was also a die-hard romantic and lived by his convictions that 'blood runs thicker than water. He is pre-deceased by all four of his siblings: James Dignon, Jean Conroy, Terry Dignon and Alec Dignon. He is survived by his five children: Suzanne Dignon (and husband Ian Neville) of San Francisco, CA; Gavin Dignon of Fairfield, CT, Alasdair Dignon (and wife Gina) of Fairfield, CT; Terry Dignon of Brooklyn, NY; and Sinead Dignon of Charlotte, NC. He has five grandchildren: Ewan, Addison, McKenna, Fionnuala and Alasdair. He will be fondly remembered for his warmth, humor, tolerance and passion for adventure. Memorial service on Thursday August 28th, 5-9pm at Anna Liffey's, 1494 Post Rd, Fairfield, CT. Notes of condolence can be sent to the Dignon Family at 113 Charles Street, Fairfield, CT 06824