It is with great sorrow we announce the passing of Hugo Smecher, our Dad, Grandfather, Nonno who passed away peacefully, surrounded by family March 14th in the Abbotsford Regional Hospital.
Hugo was born June 3, 1931 in Trail, BC. He was educated at Royal Roads in Victoria, before moving to Yellow Knife NWT. There he met Doreen Pierce, they married and started their family. In 1957 they moved to Edmonton where Hugo finished his post secondary education in Teaching and 1972 brought a move to Castlegar where Hugo took a job as principal of the Rossland High School.
Hugo was predeceased by his parents, Alex and Mina, and in 2019 his wife, Doreen. He is survived by his three children: son Curt (Heather), and two daughters Bonnie (Alstan) Horswill, and Lynn (Keith) Ujvary, 7 Grandchildren and 9 Great Grandchildren.
We’ve lost a gentle soul whose positive outlook was deep in his DNA and a true gentleman who among other things loved to fish. He loved to teach his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids how to think like a fish. In Lakes big or small, river fishing for trout, fly fishing in his belly boat, but his favorite was creek fishing with a bunch of little kids, with a frying pan and fresh buns at the ready.
Hugo talked often and fondly of his time in the schools. He was a teacher first and loved bumping into his former students wherever he went.
The family would like to thank Dr. Ko, Dr. Sayeh, Dr. Williams, Dr. Neitzel, Dr. Su And Dr. Ankenbouer for their kindness, compassion and care. The care and professionalism by these excellent Doctors is unmatched anywhere.
A Catholic service will be held at St. Rita’s church in Castlegar with a short reception to follow at a later date.
Rest in Peace Dad.
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Linda Brommeland
So sorry Hugo passed away. Many fond memories as our neighbour. Rest in peace Hugo.
Cindy Prcevich nee Smecher
I am sorry for your loss.
Charlie &Vicki Washburn
We never got to meet Hugo but felt like we knew him via Bonnie and Alstan sharing much about him. We are sorry for your loss and you are in our thoughts and prayers. R.I.P.
Lisa Freeland and Tim Duff
So sorry to read of this, Bonnie. No matter our age, it’s so very disheartening to lose one’s parents.. love and care to you and your family
Scott Simpson
Loving thoughts and hugs to you, Lynn and your entire family. So sorry to have heard of your Dad’s sudden passing…..I know he has struggled with his health of course and it’s been a very difficult time for your family these past couple of years for sure. I can only hope that you will all be able to find some “peace” again and comfort knowing your parents are together again….no longer in pain…..and will be watching down on all of you, smiling….
Much love to you all….
Scott
Patricia Swadden
Dear Lynn and Keith
So very sorry, Lynn, to read of your father’s death. I know your Castlegar community is embracing you as we do from afar in Gibsons.
Hugs and warm regards.
Jim and Inga Lamont
So sad to gave lost our friends Hugo this and Doreen on year ago. We were good friends sharing many a meal conference, weddings and lately funerals. We had many discussions but always ended up still as friends even though we did not agree on something we had discussed. I will no longer be able to make Hugo a lemon pie,but every time i make one i will think of Hugo. We will miss them so much. The Smecher family has lost the patriarchs of the famiy.
Karen Gretchen
Heartfelt condolences from the Grunerud and Gretchen families.
Melanie Simpson
Lynn, I’m so sorry. Praying for your family at this difficult time. Love you!
Carol and Brian Millar
We are truly sorry to hear this. Your dad was really a true gentleman with a wicked sense of humour. Our thoughts and prayers are for you now.
Lee Mack
RIP Mr. Smetcher you were the best teacher ever!
Lee Mack/grad 1988 RSS
Lisa Markevich
We are so sorry for your loss. We wish you peace during this difficult time. Love Lisa & Family, Chris & Family & Linda & Atillio in spirit.
Diana Liddle
To all the Smecher families:
My sincere condolences for your loss.
Our love and prayers are with you.
Diana (Franco) Liddle & families