On August 17, 2016 Hugh Edwin Wilson, beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Papa, Brother, Uncle left us for his heavenly home. After months of declining health, Hugh passed away at the age of 85 at TBRHSC in Thunder Bay. His Wife Delores, of 64 years was holding his hand when he passed away.
Hugh was born in Newark, N.Y. on June 21, 1931. After coming to Canada at the age of 6, Hugh grew up in Westfort and South Neebing.
He started his working career at age 14 working in the bush camps of Northwestern Ontario. Later he worked as an orderly at the Lakehead Psychiatric Hospital and the Hospital Farm on Highway 61.
On June 27, 1952 Hugh married the love of his life Delores Green. Shortly after starting a family he took on the position managing the Chapple’s Farm in Slate River. Following this, the family moved to Wakefield Quebec where Hugh managed a farm at a home for underprivileged children.
Returning to Thunder Bay with his family he started a long career as a builder. One can hardly drive down any road in Slate River area, without seeing a touch of his hand.
Hugh also worked tirelessly volunteering in construction of churches, Bible camps and for those in need, while still providing for his family. He was instrumental in the formation of the radio station CJTL 98.1 which is aired throughout Northwestern Ontario.
In his teens, Hugh taught himself to play guitar. He sang and played in various local dance halls until he had a life changing experience with God.
This led to a lifelong freedom with which he refocused his talents to gospel music. With the formation of the group, the Gospelites; this friendship and ministry with Elwood and Charlie and his desire to serve the Lord has had a lasting effect on many lives. Hugh continued to sing, compose and lay preach until recently.
Hugh is survived by Wife Delores of 64 years, Son Hugh Jr. (Cheryl). Grandchildren: Cale (Sarah), Kevin (Ashley), Andrew (Sarah). Son Wade (Liz). Grandchildren: Dr. David (Dr. Jammie), Stephen, Jonathan (Megan). Daughter Sheri (Ron). Grandchildren: Sarah, Amy (Dylan), Aaron (Annie).
Great Grandchildren: Neville and Leif Wilson, Adam and Nathan Kustra, Chloe-Pyper Nordstrom.
Sister: Harlene Mackenzie (Rod), Sisters-in Law, Lorraine Wilson and Molly Green. Many Nieces and Nephews. Also lifelong friends, his pianist Valerie and Husband Charlie of the Gospelites, Elwood of the Gospelites, and his Wife Dorothy. Richard and Gladys and also Shirley.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to World Vision or Samaritan’s Purse. A private family burial service will take place on Monday, August 22, 2016. A celebration of life of Hugh Sr.’s life is to be announced.
