Hugh Wedegis

Norwich - Hugh G. Wedegis, 66, of 129 West Thames Street, Norwich died on Monday, October 30th, at Lawrence & Memorial Hospital in New London.

In addition to his beloved wife of 44 years, Doris, Hugh leaves his three sons, Thomas, David, and Steven and their wives Kris, Kathy, and Patti; grandchildren, Elizabeth, Allison, Amanda, Katelyn, Jacqueline, and Kristen; his father, Hugo Obram; and his constant companion, Casey.

Hugh was born in Manhattan, N.Y., and was an electrical engineer working with the U.S. Space Program testing the Lunar Modules during the 1960's. He moved his family to Connecticut in 1971 to own and operate River Bend Campground in Oneco. In the ensuing years, his interest in taxation and finances led him to a master's degree in financial services. He started a business that totaled nine tax preparation franchises, estate planning, real estate services, and accounting, which later culminated in the financial planning and taxation business of Financial Directions, Inc. As the president of FDI, he achieved numerous industry designations, including, certified financial planner, chartered financial consultant, Charter Life underwriter, enrolled agent before the I.R.S., among others. Considered a tax and estate planning expert, he lectured for numerous industry associations and was published in numerous industry periodicals and newspapers. He actively participated, and held leadership positions, in many local, regional, and national professional organizations related to his tax and financial expertise, including the Financial Planners Association, the Life Underwriters Association, and the Estate and Tax Planning Council of Eastern Connecticut.

In addition to his family and clients, he was dedicated to his church and his faith. Over the years he has been committed to numerous civic associations, including the Boy Scouts of America, the church executive board, the church financial board, and the New London Power Squadron.

A true family man, Hugh's passions included traveling the United States in his motor home and traveling on the waterways in his cabin cruiser.

Visitation will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, November 2nd, at Church and Allen Funeral Home, 136 Sachem Street, Norwich (860-889-2374).

A Memorial Service will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. on Friday, November 3rd, at St. Luke Lutheran Church, 1830 Route 12, Gales Ferry (860-464-7897).

Memorial contributions, in lieu of flowers, are suggested to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 1131, Fairfax, VA 22038-1131.

Please visit the online memorial at www.mem.com

The Church and Allen Funeral Home, 136 Sachem St., Norwich, is entrusted with arrangements.