David Thomas Hughes

On April 28, 2022, D. Thomas Hughes (Tom) passed away peacefully at home following a 13 year battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife and soul mate, Renae; sisters Marilyn Dyer of White Rock, BC; and Jean McCloskey of Edmonton. Tom was predeceased by his parents David and Violet Hughes; sisters Doreen Quaglietta and Grace Rider as well as his beloved dog, Taz.

Tom was a hard worker and a born entrepreneur who loved making a good deal. By the age of 9, he was working 3 part-time jobs while attending school. During his early high school years, Tom and his two friends would scour back alleys for cars that were obviously not working. They would buy them for a few dollars, tow them home, get them running and then sell them for a small profit. Tom completed high school through Alberta College and completed his Bachelor of Education at University of Alberta. He went on to a career as a creative and caring teacher and soon accepted a position as a school principal/problem-solver which took him to a new rural school every two years. Tom often stated that the saddest days were the last day of each school year. He eventually resigned his teaching position and, with his talent for designing and building, Tom started working with a major construction company - Nu-West Development Corporation - and rose to the position of Vice President in the Housing Division and set up the Multi-Housing division. In 1982, Tom set up his own construction company - Aurora Building Corporation. Through the construction years, his many projects included several high-rise buildings in Calgary and Edmonton, the Sawridge Hotel in Jasper, and stores for Walmart, Payless Shoes, Tim Horton's and Canadian Tire. Tom retired from his company in 2009 which was the same year he was diagnosed with cancer.

Tom grew up with Celtic traditions. From a young age, he was a highland dancer; he loved Scottish music and played bagpipes for many years into adulthood. He also loved nature and animals, especially dogs and horses, and had a special rapport with them. Travel was another passion, and he and Renae went on many memorable trips.

Tom will especially be missed for his generosity, sense of humour, storytelling and practical solutions to so many problems.

Tom was especially grateful to his medical team including Dr. Naveen Bassapa; Dr. Taurian Guinand; Dr. Renfred Chow and Dr. Chad Baker.

At Tom's request, there will be no funeral and in lieu of flowers and cards, donations may be made to the RCMP Pipes, Drums and Dancers of Alberta Pipeband. Address - The Real Celtic Music Playing Society - 302 Cowan Crescent, Sherwood Park, AB T8H 0E3. E-transfers may be made to [email protected].