Obituary of Hugh McWHINNEY

May 30, 1936 – Winnipeg, Manitoba
May 21, 2020 – Calgary, Alberta

We are saddened to announce the passing of our beloved husband, dedicated father, cherished Opa, and dear friend. Hugh McWhinney passed away in Calgary, Alberta, with his family at his side, on Thursday May 21, 2020, just shy of his 84th birthday.

Hugh Bell McWhinney was born May 30, 1936 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He was the fifth of seven children to Ruby and Hugh McWhinney. He was predeceased by his siblings Bill, Bob, Glenn, Pat, and Isabel. He is survived by his brother Bruce.

It was in Winnipeg, Manitoba, that Hugh met the love his life, Wilma (nee Heckert); whom he spotted standing outside an ice cream shop when he was on his bicycle across the street. He would say, years later, that he loved her the moment he saw her. Hugh and Wilma left Winnipeg in 1958 when they traveled west to Calgary, Alberta. It was in Calgary that they wed on July 7, 1959 and built their house from the ground up, on 19th St NW. That house is where they built their lives together, raised their family, and remained for 60 years.

Hugh leaves behind his cherished wife Wilma, 87, who is his heart and soul. He will be greatly missed by his family; his son Cory, his wife Nicole, and their children Liam, Sarah, Zoey and Sophie; as well as his daughter Tanya, her partner Bill, and her children Noah, Hailey and Damon. He also leaves behind his dear Brother and Sisters-in-law, and many beloved nieces and nephews, with whom he shared very special relationships.

Hugh and Wilma were Foster Parents for many years. Hugh reflected back on that time, honoured to have been a part of the lives of Guy Jason Menary, Peter Bagu, Carole-Ann B, as well as Keith and Chris J. His legacy of foster parenting was continued by Tanya, Cory, and Guy, as they were raised with his desire to help those in need and his compassion.

“H.B. McWhinney” was a character like no other. To all those he encountered, especially those blessed enough to call him family, he brought laughter and entertainment, providing ample stories of his eclectic ways, witty sarcasm, and incredible sense of humour. It is that very quality about him that was the true essence of who he was, and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He was a strong and very hard working man, who lived a simple life, happiest when he was just surrounded by his children and grandchildren. Huey was the life of the party, loved to be around people, and would chat up anyone he came across. He was so deeply appreciated by his friends and family for his loyalty, integrity, and the way he always took care of those he loved. He took pride in the life he gave his family, the home he built, and how he provided for them.

Among the many “Huey-ism” phrases he so often repeated, “Always Remember The Good Times” was perhaps his most spoken. We will go forward doing just that, and being grateful for the time we had with this amazing man.

Hugh will be cremated on May 30th, which would have been his 84th birthday. A service will be held at a future date to honour him and gather in his memory. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Hugh’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.

We ask that to honour Hugh, in lieu of flowers or gifts, you make a donation in his name to: Alberta Foster Care and Kinship Association; Bursary Fund-Memorial Donation in memory of Hugh McWhinney 303, 9488 51st Ave NW Edmonton, AB T6E 5A6.

In living memory of Hugh McWhinney, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Crowfoot, 82 CROWFOOT CIRCLE NW, CALGARY, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.