Hugh Melville Hamilton

Important to Hugh was faith, family and friends.

His faith journey was somewhat convoluted in that he took a side trip into the world of Civil Engineering and Transportation Rail. He always loved trains and was very proud of his work as an engineer. He worked for the Canadian National Railway and for Algoma Central Railway. While working for the railways, he also worked as Lay Reader in the various communities in which he lived. However he realized over time that he needed to assume roles that immersed him more fully in Anglican Church life. Following his ordination as Deacon and then as Priest, Hugh became Incumbent in the Anglican Parish of St. Joseph and St. George (on St. Joseph Island and in Echo Bay, Ontario respectively) until his retirement in 2006. In addition to his work as parish priest, he was made Archdeacon and worked with other churches throughout the Deanery. Following his retirement, he became Honorary Assistant at St. Luke’s Cathedral in Sault Ste. Marie.

As to family, if he had not taken that side trip with a posting to the railway town of Capreol, Ontario his immediate family would not be what it currently is and he would not have had to adjust to a large and somewhat boisterous family of in-laws. But he did and he adjusted. He was much loved by his wife of 57 years, Anna. He will be missed by his children Heather (David) and Barbara (David); as well as by his sister Elizabeth Matthews and all of his brothers and sisters in-law on his dear wife’s side. Proud and loving grandpa to Anna and David Cragg. Uncle of many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews (there are even some great-greats). Predeceased by his parents Ellen and Franklin Hamilton from Scarborough, Ontario and in-laws Elsie and Dwight Schell from Eastwood, Ontario.

Hugh made friends and became actively involved in each community in which he lived. Most recently, living on St. Joseph Island, he was active in the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 374. He delivered Meals on Wheels and provided rides as Volunteer Driver for the Trefry Centre. While he was able, he shopped weekly for the St. Joseph Island & Area Food Bank. He was outgoing and enjoyed people and social occasions.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm and from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Arthur Funeral Home – Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington Street East, 705-759-2522). Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at 11:00 am at St. Luke’s Cathedral (160 Brock Street) with Archbishop Anne Germond officiating. Light lunch to take place in the Cathedral following the service. Interment at Holy Trinity Anglican Cemetery, Jocelyn, to be announced at a later date. If you wish, a donation (payable by cheque or online) in Hugh’s memory may be made to Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides or to a charity of your choice. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.arthurfuneralhome.com for the Hamilton family.