Predeceased by parents Henry and Mary, brother Ian, and sister Eleanor.
Survived by his wife of 42 years, Barb, children Eileen (Rob) Taylor, Richard (Gayle), Rosemary, Carina (Dustin) Miles, 6 grandchildren - Erin, Jamie, Laura, Stephanie, Aria and Hunter; 4 great grandchildren - Dylan, Max, Julien, and Anders; sister-in-law Vera, and several nieces and nephews.
Hugh was raised in the District of Portobello near Edinburgh, and schooled at Heriots, for which he had always held in the highest regard and had many fond memories of his days there. He later returned several times over the decades for school reunions. Hugh’s early school years spanned the period during WWII and he then completed an honours degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Edinburgh at age 20.
During his youth he was active in swimming (winning some school competitions), and golf whenever time allowed.
After immigrating to Canada in the early 1950's, he held jobs which included designing spans on the Granville St. Bridge, and pulp and paper mills in New Zealand and Texas. From then, he became more involved in hydraulic engineering and design of hydroelectric power projects. He worked with the BC Power Commission, also with Ingledow Kidd & Assoc. where he designed hydro power projects in India and Sri Lanka. He undertook field assessments for the United Nations concerning future hydro power water supply dams in Ecuador in the 1960's. During 1964-1966 he was Chief Civil Engineer for Acres Consultants Ltd while in Vancouver. From 1966 until his retirement he was the Chief of Power and Special Projects with the BC Water Rights Branch which expanded to responsibility for safety of all large dams in the province. He loved his work.
During retirement he enjoyed many hours of golf at the Victoria Golf Club where he was a member for over 40 years (hole-in-one on the 9th (2 iron) and on the 13th), playing piano, travel and playing with the family golden retrievers.
He had a quick wit, was always optimistic and encouraging to others, and made many friends over the years.
Hugh had a keen interest in meditation throughout his life and was involved during the early days of TM with the Vancouver TM Center in the 1960's. He had sometimes escorted Maharishi to various public talks in Vancouver during that time. He was also a member of the Victoria TM Center during the 1970's. From 1980, he was actively involved in the Canadian Meditation Society.
He had a long and interesting life and he will be remembered by many.
Private service at a later date.
Donations may be made to the charity or organization of your choice, or to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada, a cause Hugh supported.
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