Hugh Malcolm; Obituary, Death: It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Hugh David Griffith Malcolm, beloved family member, friend, artist, and lifelong enthusiast of the outdoors. Hugh passed away peacefully at his home in Collingwood on June 21, 2023, at the age of 68. He was surrounded by his loving family who had supported him through his courageous battle with early-onset Parkinson’s disease.
Hugh leaves behind an enduring legacy of kindness, artistic vision, and a zest for life that touched everyone who knew him. Hugh was born on October 10, 1954, in Rochester, New York, to his parents David and Helen Malcolm. From a young age, it was clear that Hugh was a creative spirit. His love of painting, fishing, and the outdoors flourished in his childhood and would continue to shape the person he became.
A natural artist, he had an eye for capturing the beauty around him, whether it was through the strokes of a paintbrush or the quiet moments spent in nature. After his schooling, Hugh moved to Ottawa, where he would go on to enjoy a varied and fulfilling career. His time with the Ottawa Senators was particularly memorable, although it was tragically cut short by a diagnosis of early-onset Parkinson’s disease. Despite this, Hugh continued to pursue his passions with determination and resilience.
His love for painting remained a central part of his life, with many pieces reflecting his connection to the natural beauty of the Ottawa Valley. His work often depicted the landscapes he so loved, from serene lakes to rolling hills, capturing the very essence of the world around him. As much as Hugh was drawn to painting, he was equally passionate about fishing and golfing. He spent countless hours exploring the most remote lakes and rivers in the Valley, often accompanied by family and friends.
These outings brought him immense joy, as he reveled in the peace and solitude of the natural world, and they became cherished memories for those who shared them with him. His love for the outdoors was matched only by his loyalty to the Ottawa Senators and Liverpool Football Club, two teams he fervently supported throughout his life. Despite the challenges that Parkinson’s disease presented, Hugh remained positive and determined. Even after his career with the Senators was over, he continued to paint, fish, and enjoy life with his loyal rescue dog, Max.
His dedication to his passions, his family, and his community never wavered. Those who knew Hugh knew him as a man of great heart and humor, whose joy for life was infectious. He had an innate ability to make those around him smile, whether through his quick wit, his warm and welcoming nature, or his incredible generosity. In 2010, Hugh made the decision to move closer to family who had supported him throughout his illness and treatment.
Though he found comfort in being near loved ones, his heart remained firmly planted in Renfrew, the place where he had spent so many happy years and where he felt most at peace. His family recalls many quiet afternoons spent in Renfrew, where Hugh could often be found with a fishing rod in hand, a paintbrush at the ready, or simply enjoying the tranquility of his surroundings. Renfrew was always his true home, and it was there that his spirit truly thrived.
Hugh’s family takes solace in knowing that he found peace after a long and brave struggle. He is survived by his siblings, nieces, nephews, and countless friends who will remember him fondly. He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Helen Malcolm, who had both been unwavering sources of love and support throughout his life.
In keeping with Hugh’s wishes, no formal service will be held. Cremation has taken place, and his ashes will be spread by his family in Betws-y-Coed, North Wales, a place Hugh held dear to his heart. Hugh had always spoken fondly of the peaceful beauty of Betws-y-Coed, and it is fitting that his journey will come full circle in this serene, beloved location.
His family encourages everyone who loved him to honor his memory by sharing his name out loud, telling stories, and celebrating his life with humor and joy, as he would have wanted. A true connoisseur of life’s simple pleasures, Hugh would have wanted us to raise a glass in his memory, appreciating good art, acts of kindness, and of course, copious amounts of very good scotch—a signature part of many a celebration.
While flowers are gratefully declined, the family requests that donations be made in Hugh’s memory to organizations that were meaningful to him throughout his journey. The Movement Disorder Clinic at Toronto Western Hospital, The Michael J. Fox Foundation, the Georgian Triangle Humane Society, and Hospice Georgian Triangle were vital sources of support for Hugh during his illness. Contributions to any of these organizations would be greatly appreciated.
Hugh’s passing leaves a void in the lives of those who loved him. His infectious laughter, his generosity of spirit, and his deep love for life will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Though we mourn his loss, we find comfort in the knowledge that he is now at peace, and that his legacy of kindness, creativity, and love will continue to inspire us all.
Hugh’s family would like to thank the incredible medical staff and caregivers who supported him through his illness. Their compassion and dedication made a profound difference in Hugh’s life, and their kindness will never be forgotten. As we say goodbye to Hugh, we take solace in knowing that his spirit lives on in the memories he leaves behind, in the beautiful artwork he created.
And in the lessons he taught us all about the value of kindness, the importance of family, and the joy of living life to the fullest. We will miss you, Hugh, but we will continue to celebrate you in all the ways you would have wanted. Godspeed, dear Hugh. You are forever loved, and your memory will live on in our hearts.
