Hugh James Robinson
Hugh passed away at home on Wednesday, April 11, 2012, at the age of 87.
Hugh was born in the Immaculata Hospital in Westlock Alberta on July 1, 1924, the eldest child of Hugh Edwin Ronald (Bob) and Margaret McBeth Robinson (Forbes). Hugh spent his boyhood years in Chisholm and Fawcett, Alberta. He is survived by his loving wife of over 60 years, Marguerite Lillian (Bell), and their six children: Donna Kathleen Brandle (Bob), Harold Forbes (Marianne), Gordon James (Debby), Eleanor Jane Carmichael (Rob), Robert Jeffrey and Charlotte Joan Louise; 18 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; and also sisters, Helen Waller and Ruth Blake.
Hugh served overseas in World War II with the Royal Canadian Navy Voluntary Reserve as a leading torpedo operator on the escort aircraft carrier HMCS Puncher. Following the war Hugh worked as an industrial electrician in Alberta and B.C. and was active as an IWA job steward and committee chair which lead to his election as a member of the Local 1-80 executive. Hugh retired as 1st vice president of the local union to work on the Apprenticeship Program and helped to write the new guidelines for the trades training and apprenticeship program in B.C.
Dad was a man of integrity who was very proud of his family. He loved reading, quoting poetry, and always gave you his undivided attention. He delighted in children and the child in all of us. He loved working in his garden, which he enjoyed on his last day.
The family thanks Dr. Cancade for his years of compassionate care and support, the health care community, CNIB, Veterans Affairs, Fr. Brian and St. Paul’s Church.
A service will be held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 29 Church Street, Nanaimo on Saturday, April 21st, 2012 at 2 pm. Tea to follow in the church hall. God, Family and Compassion for all.