HUGH B. TAIT

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HUGH B. TAIT 1922 - 2014 Passed away peacefully at Meadowood Manor on April 28 in his 93rd year, with his loving family by his side. Predeceased one year ago by Patricia, wife of almost 67 years. Beloved father of Rob (Cathy) and David (Kathleen). Caring grandfather of Amanda (Ben Morris), Michael (Alyson), Colin (Vanessa Grandmaison) and Emily (Derek Carriere). Great-grandfather of Mason, Alexa, Riley, Summer, Braeden and Finley. Survived also by his brother Robert (Gudrun), his sister Kay Ames, his brother-in-law Bill Robertson (Irene) and numerous nieces and nephews. Hugh and Pat met not long before The Second World War broke out. Enlisting as a 17 year old kid, he returned five years later a man, now six inches taller. Besides height, he brought home a major dislike for mutton and brussel sprouts! During Pat and Hugh's courtship a lifelong friendship was formed with Agnes and Hugh Comack. Many a "the two Hughie" stories are told. Good Scotch usually was involved. Also very important to him was the love of his and Pat's siblings and spouses. He valued their friendships immensely and cherished his role as "Uncle Hughie" to many. But Hugh's legacy will be how, through example, he taught his sons and grandsons to be a loving husband and father. Hugh was a mentor to his sons, teaching them how to skate, play hockey, golf, fish and hunt. Hugh enjoyed a 34 year career with Customs and Excise. He was respected and liked by colleagues and the importing community in Winnipeg and Ottawa. Both his sons and two of his grand-children followed in his footsteps and chose careers with the Canada Border Services Agency. After retirement Hugh and Pat enjoyed many winters with friends in Florida, and summers at Dave and Kathleen's cottage at Star Lake, Manitoba. His grandchildren will forever cherish those early mornings at the lake fishing with their grandpa or sitting on his knee. Hugh's "grandfather" title was extended to the younger Law clan, who called him Big Bubba Tait. He treasured his inclusion. During afternoon naps, he was often "surprised" to wake up with peanut butter on his nose. Hugh loved the extended family gatherings with the Law/Rodrigue cottages and neighbours. His appreciation of food was well known but also that he would rather have had dinner "not on lake time". This past year has been a difficult one. Many losses.Patricia, his independence and sometimes his memory. But his care at Victoria Hospital, then Deer Lodge Tower 7 and finally at Meadowood Manor was exceptional. He felt safe and loved. For that we can never thank you enough. A celebration of Hugh's life will be held at Neil Bardal Funeral Centre, 3030 Notre Dame Avenue (across from Brookside Cemetery) on Friday May 16, 2014 at 12:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Hugh's name to a charity of your choice. Rest in peace Hugh but if you can, steer the fish our way and send the golf balls straight to the hole. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 03, 2014