Hugh Blakeney
1955-2024
Hugh Blakeney was unique in every way. A kind, loving, and principled person, he put his family above all else. He passed away suddenly on Wednesday, March 20th, in Ottawa.
Born in Regina, Saskatchewan (a loyal Roughriders fan his whole life), Hugh spent the last 42 years in Ottawa where he worked as a lawyer in private practice and for the NDP for Ed Broadbent, Alexa McDonough, and Howard Hampton.
Hugh had a passion for history, politics, and mathematics and taught his children to see both sides of every argument.
This passion for knowledge led him to a love of travel, which he shared with his wife, Mary, and their family. Together they created lasting memories of trips taken across the globe.
It also meant he would stride through the Glebe, cloth tote bag in hand, to the public library to nurture his fascination for the world around him.
Equally adventurous in his cooking, he was often found in the kitchen making those he loved happy by preparing great meals.
He loved the small joys in life, such as paddling a canoe and holding a newborn baby in his arms. For Hugh, few things were better than a game of bridge, a long train trip, a shady spot, and a good pair of wool socks.
Hugh will be deeply missed by his wife, Mary Ormerod, and children, Victoria (Jonathan), Stephen (Robyn), Isobel (Katie), and Christopher.
A committed and loving father, he was exceptionally proud of his children and delighted in his granddaughters Elouise and Merrill.
He will be remembered fondly by his mother, Anne, and siblings, Barbara, David, and Margaret (Stan).
Hugh will be missed for his quirky humour, his brilliant mind, and his kindness.
His wife and children are heartbroken by this loss as are his family, friends, and the Adelaide Street community.
A celebration of life will be held in his honour in June. Please contact the family for further details, which will be available in late April.
If you wish to make a donation in his memory please consider a community focused organization such as the Friends of the Ottawa Public Library.
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.
“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”
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
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.
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!
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 !!!
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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
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
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!
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
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
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.
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
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
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
Mary, I am deeply sorry for your and your family's loss. I am thinking of you and your family.
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.
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Sending my sympathy and thinking of you at this very difficult time.
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
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.
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.
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
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.
It's so hard to believe that Hugh won't be there when I visit Ottawa, puttering about with his latest wood project, or engrossed in yet another book about history or politics or travel, and in recent months combining those loves in planning a trip to Europe.
It will feel strange to play Scrabble without him peering over our shoulders, offering advice and assistance, and yet never wanting to actually join the game. Much more fun to play everyone's rack!
He was kind, intelligent and ethical. He and Bruce shared those attributes and enjoyed each other's company. We will miss them both.
Mary, I just learned of your husbands passing. I am so sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences to you and your family.
Wilma
Hi Mary, i found this ad: i'm very sorry for Hugh, i met him years ago in september 1991, he was a very good person. I still remember him now....heartfelt condolences.
Avio Rodriguez Italy
