28 messages received
Mary Omerud
Dear Mary & everyone in Hugh's family:
We were shocked and very saddened to hear of Hugh's untimely death. He was a decent, principled, and skilled man and we know you will miss him keenly. We know also that you will receive comfort and support from your fine family and friends.
Dennis Gruending & Martha Wiebe, March 27, 2024
Mary and the entire family and circle of friends (huge, naturally)
“What an absolute delight and honour to have been a friend, neighbour...and Adelaide Street hooligan with Hugh. My sadness at Hugh's death is so wonderfully overshadowed and left in the dust of so very many cherished memories of delightful porchside chats, engaging policy debates (me always on the learning side of the equation), and feisty Trivia Pursuit matches (with a teeny nudge closer to balance). Hugh was uncommonly brilliant, yet never "lost the common touch". I admired him greatly. Phil Nicholson”
J. Phillip Nicholson, March 27, 2024
Hugh’s Family and Friends.
We were shocked and saddened to hear of Hugh’s sudden passing. He had a life well lived, although too short. Cherish your memories and hold them close to your heart. Our sympathy, Bruce and Linda Blakeney
Bruce and Linda Blakeney, March 28, 2024
Mary and the family
Hugh was the warmest, most intelligent, and kindest friend anyone could have. It was a privilege knowing him. He was, simply put, the best of us.
Julian Roberts , March 28, 2024
Mary and Hugh’s family and friends,
I was saddened to learn of Hugh’s sudden passing. Although words cannot adequately express the sadness you must feel, please accept my deepest sympathy.
I first met Hugh when I worked with his father, Premier Allan Blakeney, then had the pleasure to work with him in Ottawa when he served with Alexa McDonough.
As Whip of the federal NDP, I had the privilege of working with him for several years. He was a grand personality, who was a strong force for doing what was right. His counsel was important to me because I could always count on his experience and calm advice on matters pertaining to Caucus operations.
Whenever I had the occasion to see or meet with Premier Blakeney, I always called him Hugh’s dad. Allan always laughed or smiled at that greeting. He was very proud of Hugh.
Rest in Peace Hugh!
John Solomon, March 28, 2024
To the Blakeney family
My deepest sympathies to all of Hugh's family. I cannot express my out pouring of sadness upon hearing this news but remember always :
Hugh was a wonderful person loved by all who came in contact with him and yes a great sense of humour ! and mischievous ! but above all very kind to everyone no matter their
position in life .
I knew Hugh in his university days and he was a great bridge player and enjoyed his Guinness in those days - yes go Riders go- all us old Saskawanites still find us cheering for those
Riders !!!
Sherry Hettema, March 28, 2024
Mary
So very saddened to hear of your Hugh’s sudden and too-early death. Wishing you and the kids all the possible comfort that comes from having such a wonderful man in your lives. Thinking of you all.
Katie Faught, March 28, 2024
Mary and Hugh's family
I am shocked and heartbroken at the loss of your husband, father, son, brother and friend. The obituary pays tribute to the man that he was - gentle, inquisitive, thoughtful, intelligent, funny and totally devoted to his family. I am grateful for the times we all spent together over the years - canoeing in Algonquin, skiing in the Gatineau, traveling together, eating his delicious (and excessive!) concoctions at 13 Adelaide, and talking about topics big and small. Our lives have all been made richer by having Hugh in them. And that makes his loss so much more acute. His legacies are many - but the most important is the warm and loving family that he leaves behind. I know that you will support each other. I send big hugs.
AnnieB
Anne Biringer, March 28, 2024
Mary Ormerod
Mary & Family ...
Sending our heartfelt condolences to you. Hugh will be missed very much by his family and friends.
"The Cookman Clan"
Connie & Reg
Bill & Helen
Brian & Erin
Kelly & Jimmy
Connie Cookman-Manuel , March 29, 2024
Hugh's family
I am so very sorry to hear of Hugh's death and of this great loss in your lives. We worked together in the Broadbent years and I remember that Hugh was a ray of light when he walked into any room. Intelligent, thoughtful and filled with positive vibes. My deepest condolences to all of you at this very sad time.
Pat Zakaib, March 30, 2024
Mary Ormand
So very sorry to hear of Hugh’s passing. I fondly remember working with him on the Hill, and sharing a common passion for the Riders. He was so smart, kind and generous. Sending healing thoughts to you and your family.
Rob Sutherland , March 30, 2024
Anne, Mary and all the family
I met Hugh only once.
We were moving to Ottawa from Regina and I was looking for a job. I had been communicating with his father who suggested that I call Hugh. With the usual trepidation, I made the proverbial “cold call”, dropped his father’s name and Hugh suggested that we meet for lunch. How generous of him to give me his time and his advice! It had an impact: we are still here.
With our condolences,
Nadine Sandercock and David Henley
Nadine Sandercock, March 30, 2024
Mary, Victoria,Stephen, Isobel and Christopher
Mary,
I am so sorry to learn about Hugh’s passing. I remember Hugh as a proud and caring father who loved his family unconditionally. He had an inquisitive mind and a kind, joyful approach to life.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Kathy Keely
Kathy Keely, March 30, 2024
Mary and the family
I was so saddened to hear of Hugh's sudden passing. It has been a pleasure to have someone so knowledgeable, thoughtful and friendly as a neighbour. In the work he did with NDP leaders, he served Canada well, in keeping with the important Blakeney family name. (I guess I sound like a Parliamentarian, but I am struck that special people like him make this a better country for all of us!)
Please know that your neighbours on Adelaide share in your sadness. It is our sadness too.
Love the obit!
Andrew Cardozo, March 30, 2024
Hugh
Condolences to Hugh’s family
Hugh and I met in first year at law school. We happened to sit in adjacent seats. From there Hugh and I became fast friends. Over time we became members of the flat landers group at law school. We always remained good friends.
He was a wonderful human being.
Rest easy Hugh
Gary Ostry, March 30, 2024
Mary
Mary, I am so saddened to hear of this news. My heart breaks for you and your family, and I offer you my sincere condolences. You and Hugh were always role models in how you raised your family with compassion, care and a great zest for life, while still pursuing professional and personal interests. May his memory be a blessing to your and your family at this time.
Rosalie
Rosalie armstrong, March 31, 2024
Mary, Anne and the whole family
First of all, losing any one of the endangered species called Hughs is a devastating loss.
To lose that particular Hugh, however, is one-of-a-kind sadness. Husband, father, son, sibling and cousin, to name just a few outstanding roles he has played, he brought his unique skills and charms to all. It was terrific to see him again in Ottawa last year. With smiling memories of his big grin and sense of humour, our sympathies, and big hugs to all from your East Coast cousins.
Hugh Paton, April 1, 2024
Mary, Family and their friends.
I knew Mary from the office, I didn't know Hugh but it's obvious he was loved and brought so much joy and fun into the lives of people he met.
I'm so sorry for your loss. Sending you strength for the days ahead.
Teri B
Teri B, April 2, 2024
Mary Ormerod
I am so sorry for your loss Mary. I remember hearing of wonderful family memories from you about canoeing in Northern Saskatchewan. I will think of you both if I get there in the coming summers to come as I hope.
David Edwards
David Edwards, April 2, 2024
Mary
Dear Mary,
I'm so very sorry to hear of the passing of your husband. Please know that my thoughts are with you and your family during these difficult times.
Lucie
Lucie Berthel, April 3, 2024
Mary
Mary, I am deeply sorry for your and your family's loss. I am thinking of you and your family.
Christina Benedict, April 3, 2024
Isobel
Isobel, I’m so so sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad and at such a young age. His big smile and obvious joy at your engagement party, is imprinted in my mind. Please also extend my deepest sympathies to your Mom and brothers at this time.
Kerin Harding , April 4, 2024
Mary and Family
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Sending my sympathy and thinking of you at this very difficult time.
Joy Rossol, April 4, 2024
Mary and family
We are so deeply sorry for your loss as it is truly a great one. Hugh was an incredible man, always so welcoming and kind with a warm smile on his face. He will be greatly missed by many. Thinking of you all as you remember and celebrate the wonderful life he had and all of his beautiful blessings. I believe that when we lose someone so close, they continue to live on in our hearts. Bask in the warm memories you have, lean on them to remind you of all the joy he brought into this world. Sending you love, strength and light as you navigate this immense loss.
Love always,
Sierra, Mike and Georgina
Sierra Cermignani, April 4, 2024
The Blakeneys
I had the pleasure of meeting Hugh only once, at Isobel and Katie's engagement party. We shared several laughs and helped each other "cheat" at the I&K trivia questions that we had no idea how to answer. We both agreed we were due a drink or two at the wedding and his humour and warmth was clear over the course of our brief exchange.
Definitely a person whose company I was looking to enjoy more in the near future.
My deepest sympathies.
Bob Anglin, April 4, 2024
mary omerod
Hi Mary,
I just heard the sad news. My deepest sympathies to you and your family in these difficult times. Hugh was my principle when I articled at Perley-Robertson and he was such a great and caring mentor. My thoughts are with you.
nicole levasseur, April 8, 2024
Mary and family
We send our deepest condolences to Mary, Victoria, Stephen, Isobel & Christopher.
Hugh was a lovely neighbour and we will miss him. We have happy memories of the driveway gatherings he and Mary hosted. RIP Hugh.
~ Katrina and Chris
Katrina Geary, April 8, 2024
Mary Ormerod
I am so very sorry for your loss, Mary. My deepest condolences to you and your family. I remember you telling me about all the great meals Hugh made for you and the family - and the trail of his efforts. May these and other memories bring you comfort during this difficult time.
Natasha L.
Natasha Leclerc, April 22, 2024
