February 11, 1941 – April 17, 2026.
Faith, family, and friends were what mattered most to Hugh.
His path in faith wasn’t exactly straight since he took a detour into Civil Engineering and working with trains. Trains had always fascinated him, and he was proud of his engineering career. He worked for Canadian National Railway and Algoma Central Railway. While doing that, he also served as a Lay Reader in the communities where he lived. But over time, he realized he wanted to dive deeper into Anglican Church life. After being ordained first as Deacon then Priest, Hugh became the Incumbent at the Anglican Parish of St. Joseph and St. George (on St. Joseph Island and Echo Bay, Ontario) until retiring in 2006. Besides leading his parish, he was made Archdeacon and helped out other churches across the Deanery. After retirement, he stayed involved as an Honorary Assistant at St. Luke’s Cathedral in Sault Ste. Marie.
When it comes to family, if not for that railway job posting to Capreol, Ontario, his immediate family wouldn’t be what it is now-and honestly, dealing with a big lively bunch of in-laws was quite the adjustment for him! But adjust he did. He was deeply loved by his wife Anna of 57 years. He’ll be missed by their children Heather (David) and Barbara (David); plus by his sister Elizabeth Matthews along with all his brothers- and sisters-in-law on Anna’s side. Proud grandpa to Anna and David Cragg too. Also uncle to lots of nieces and nephews-there are even some great-nieces and nephews (and yes some great-greats too). Predeceased by parents Ellen and Franklin Hamilton from Scarborough, Ontario; as well as Elsie and Dwight Schell from Eastwood, Ontario on his wife’s side.
Hugh made friends everywhere he went and got involved right away wherever they lived last too-on St. Joseph Island recently he joined the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 374 actively. He volunteered delivering Meals on Wheels plus gave rides for the Trefry Centre as a driver volunteer. When able, he’d shop weekly for the St. Joseph Island & Area Food Bank too. Outgoing guy who enjoyed meeting people and social gatherings.
Family & friends can gather Tuesday April 28th 2026 from 3:00 pm -5:00 pm & again from 7:00 pm -9:00 pm at Arthur Funeral Home – Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington Street East | Phone: 705-759-2522). Funeral service will take place Wednesday April 29th at 11:00 am at St. Luke’s Cathedral (160 Brock Street) led by Archbishop Anne Germond officiating there will be a light lunch afterwards in the cathedral hall. The burial at Holy Trinity Anglican Cemetery in Jocelyn will happen later with date announced soon. If you’d like donations can be sent by cheque or online either to Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides or any charity you prefer. Memories or condolences can be shared online at www. arthurfuneralhome. com under Hamilton family page.
