HUGO, Joseph
July 22, 1945 – January 7, 2025
Joseph Hayes Hugo, of Westlock, Alberta, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2025 at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton.
Born on July 22, 1945, to Joseph (d. 1971) and Katherine Hugo (d. 1993, nee Hayes), Joe grew up surrounded by the love and values that would guide him throughout his life.
Joe was a devoted brother to Mary Buchholtz, Sheila Foley, Mildred Ellison, and Kathleen McClanaghan, and a proud, doting uncle to so many nieces and nephews. He cherished every moment spent with his family and delighted in sharing stories about their time together –memories made in Smith, Alberta, and beyond, which he carried close to his heart.
A natural storyteller, Joe had a rare gift for making anyone smile. Wherever he went, he made fast friends with his warmth and humor. His tales of life’s adventures, peppered with wit and charm, were unforgettable.
Joe dedicated much of his life to the Alberta oil industry, working tirelessly for many years before retiring in 2016. Retirement brought him the freedom to embrace the things he loved most; his family, his many projects, fishing the Pacific Ocean aboard his beloved boat, the Crown Jewel, and the simple joy of birdwatching with his granddaughter.
He leaves behind his loving wife, Sharon Rumming, with whom he shared a special and abiding bond. He will also be dearly missed by his children, Christine Yancey, Joanne Hugo, and Joseph Hugo Jr., and his treasured granddaughter, Katarina Hugo. Joe’s absence will be profoundly felt, but his laughter, love, and the countless memories he gifted to those who knew him will live on forever in their hearts.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will be welcome to share wonderful memories of Joe, friend, cousin, uncle, father and grandfather.
Memorials or donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories, as this was a cause of which Joe was so touched by in his lifetime.
