Hugh Squair – PhD (DIC), PEng.
January 1, 1935 - July 10, 2023
Peacefully in London, ON with family by his side.
Beloved husband, father, and grandfather. Hugh was born in Lashburn, SK to Beatrice (née Wilkinson) and Colin (Jim) Squair. He was predeceased by brothers Dennis (Winnifred) and Ernie (Faye), and sisters Betty Maclean (Norman) and Cynthia Donald (Hamish). Survived by his dear wife, Melitta (née Meister); daughters Sylvia Squair and Janet Squair; son Eric (Cassie) Squair; granddaughter Annabelle; brothers Eric (Norma) and Ian (Viv); and many nieces and nephews.
Hugh studied to be a teacher, but “caught fire” when he discovered the earth sciences. His studies in Geology took him to Yellowknife, where he met his beloved Melitta. They were married in 1963.
Hugh completed his Ph.D. in Mining Geology at Imperial College, London, UK, in 1965. Exploration took the young couple to Rouyn Noranda, PQ where Sylvia and Janet were born, and then to Toronto, ON where Eric was born, before the family moved to Australia in 1972.
Hugh’s career took the family all over the world, but Canada was always home. In 2000, he and Melitta “retired” to Ocean Park, Surrey, BC, where they enjoyed walks on the beach, cultivated a huge garden, and welcomed visitors seeking warmer climes. Hugh, of course, continued his mining directorships and consultation with the OSC. In 2018, they moved to London, ON to be closer to their children.
In life, Hugh was thoughtful and principled, with a sunny smile and a gentle humour. His greatest love was his family, who miss him dearly.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family gratefully asks that donations be made in Hugh’s name to the Department of Geological Sciences at the University of Saskatchewan (https://artsandscience.usask.ca/geology/).
Leave a tribute for Hugh Squair – PhD (DIC), PEng.
Leave a tribute
So sorry for your loss Melitta. Remembering past times together.
Hi Melitta, my sincere condolences to you and your family. I always remember how you so kindly gathered rose petals to scatter in the sea for my mother's celebration of life in 2007, so I am sending you thoughts of rose petals for your Hugh. Big hugs, Isabel xo
Dear Melitta, My condolences to you and family on the loss of Hugh. I have thought of you on many occasions when we passed by your previous home in South Surrey and the times we had met at many enjoyable gatherings and on Sunday morning walks on White Rock promenade. Regrettably, it is a sad event that reconnects us, but recalls Hugh’s ability to discuss a multitude of subjects and current events with deep knowledge and insight. At dinner parties he was a considerate and cheerful host as so, of course, was the hostess. We know how hard it is to lose someone after so many years together and trust some comfort will be found in happy, loving memories. Our thoughts are with you, Regards and best wishes, Sincerely, John and Cynthia Bliss
Make a donation
If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.
Dear Sylvia, I am so sorry for the loss of your dear father, I understand how close you were to him. In the picture of him I can see the kindness in his eyes, you must miss him very much. My condolences to you and your family. Love, Regina
~ Regina Satorius