Hugh Campbell

Hugh Campbell of Qu’Appelle and Fort Qu’Appelle passed serenely from life on November 14, 2024. He was the eldest son of Peter and Elsie (Jenkinson ) Campbell. He grew up on the family farm North of Qu’Appelle. That farm was his touchstone for the rest of his life.

His educational path led him to a Doctorate in Optometry and he practiced for decades in Regina and Fort Qu’Appelle and for a time in Vancouver.

Though he had always been involved with the farm, his lifelong interest in agriculture made him decide to dedicate himself full time to farming and he turned his attention to the development of new crops for the prairies. He brought fresh focus to the potential for such crops as field peas, lupins, faba beans, navy beans, soy beans, chickpeas, camelina and hemp. He was on the forefront of plant research and grew extensive test plots to find new varieties and hosted field days to share his research. He established many valued connections with agricultural researchers and institutions and fellow farmers. He developed life-long friendships with many young people from around the world who came to work with him.

Hugh was an innovative and multi-disciplinary man, widely-travelled and well-read, and full of interesting ideas. He took delight in new possibilities and challenges and approached new projects with confidence and determination. He often partnered with others who shared his enthusiasm.

Hugh almost always lived on the farm where he kept his horses and was surrounded by his crops and the beauty of the prairie. He loved to have evening gatherings with friends where there was good food and great discussions of history and philosophy and political and social issues and sharing of ideas for new direction and possibilities. Hugh was a great story-teller and had a keen wit and there was always lots of banter and laughter.

Hugh is survived by his sisters, Marian and Elaine and his brother Neil, who remember him with great affection. He leaves an extended family of cousins and many long-lasting friends who held him in high regard.

If you care to offer a tribute to Hugh, please consider the Parkinson’s Foundation or simply extend some act of kindness to those you find in need.