Hugh Benham

Peacefully, on January 23rd, 2011, surrounded by his family in the "Foothills" of his beloved Rocky Mountains.

Survived by – Eleanor, his wife of almost 50 years – his sweetheart of 55 years -- Much loved father of Hugh (Kathy), Steve (Jana), Barb (Paul Da Costa), Rob (Catherine). His grandchildren, Hugh, Michael, Lisa, Gage, Maddie, Katja, Alyssa, Braedon, Zach, Luke, and his Princess Hannah were the lights of his life.

He was passionate about his family, the mountains, his friends, skiing, golf, the arts, music, and his community.

Hugh was a volunteer extraordinaire, never missing an opportunity to give back and join in the celebrations that are the heart of our small town life. He loved books, games, and teasing people.

Retiring to Canmore in 2000, Hugh fully embraced his community, and was rewarded with wonderful friendships and broad volunteer involvement with like-minded folk who deeply appreciated his passion and commitment to Canmore.

He loved life, and never more than when surrounded by family and friends at "Starwood", the home he built with Eleanor for large, happy gatherings they enjoyed hosting together. Hugh never missed an opportunity to make you feel at home, hot (or stiff) drink in hand, back warmed by the warmth of their roaring wood fire, good-humour and welcome everywhere.

A memorial service was held at the Canmore Miners' Union Hall on Friday, January 28, 2011

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing to remember Hugh may make donations, in his memory to the Canmore Cancer Treatment Center, c/o Canmore and Area Health Care Foundation, 1100 Hospital Place, Canmore AB

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Services provided by Russ Reynolds and Bow River Funeral Service.