Ritchie
Augustus “Hugh”
Sept. 24, 1919 – July 19, 2011
Hugh, affectionately called “Gussie” by his grandchildren, passed away July 19th at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Comox, with family by his side. He was born in Pincher Creek, Alberta, spent most of his childhood in Vancouver, and joined the war effort overseas, as a radar operator in the R.C.A.F. In London, he met his future wife Joan on his first leave, and married her on his last leave. After the war, he and Joan raised their family in North Vancouver and he worked as a pharmacist and manager for Cunninghams, and later owned and ran a very successful Shoppers Drug Mart franchise. When he retired in 1982, he and Joan moved to the Comox Valley.
With his beloved Joanie at his side, Hugh was first and foremost an adventurer. They were trailblazers, traveling to Mexico long before it was in vogue and subsequently exploring all corners of the world. They owned several powerboats and loved to be on the water whether fishing, water-skiing, cruising, or swimming. Hugh was also an avid gardener, cribbage player, sports fan, wine maker, and champion table tennis player. He was a man of great principle, with a healthy sense of humility, and thus a role model to people from all walks of life.
He will be sadly missed by his wife Joan, his children Susan Jackson (Ron), John (Maureen), daughter-in-law Bonnie, and grandchildren Cara, Leanne (Jim Vassallo), Sharleen Jackson (Dennis Balogh), Mark Jackson (Jenny), Kyle, and Megan as well as many other family members and friends. He is predeceased by his son Steve.
The family would like to thank Dr. Tancon and the staff at his clinic, as well as all the caring, wonderful professionals and volunteers at St. Joseph’s.
There will be a small celebration of life in North Vancouver. For information call 604-313-7163. Those wishing to honour Hugh’s memory are encouraged to make a donation to the Canadian Red Cross or St. Joseph’s General Hospital Foundation.