BUTTERS, HUGH WILLIAM 1938 – 2021 Predeceased by his parents, Nellie and Captain Frank Butters Master Mariner and beloved wife Carolea. After a long and courageous battle with cancer, it is with profound sadness that we share the peaceful passing of Hugh, on March 8, 2021. Born in Collingwood, October 24, 1938, Hugh lived a full and exciting life. In Collingwood, he left his mark on the football field and hockey rink, was invited to attend the Detroit Red Wings Junior tryout camp in 1955 and achieved great personal success on the track. Hugh was Valedictorian of his graduating class and actively involved in the Church Choir.
Hugh’s teaching career began in the Village of Kirkville and for two years he taught all grades in one room. From there he went to Wilmington Public School in North York, where he met his future wife Carolea, and then spent over 20 years at St. Andrew’s Junior High where Hugh made an indelible impression and formed some of his strongest friendships. Hugh enjoyed many summers in Algonquin Park. From 1975 to 1984, he and Carolea owned and directed Camp Tanamakoon. He was highly respected and deeply loved for his passionate leadership. He will be remembered for his genuine love of the staff and his delightful sense of humour.
His love for Tanamakoon continues through treasured friend Patti Thom and his granddaughters. Hugh was a loving and devoted husband to Carolea for 53 years. From their first trip to New York in 1967 to the beautiful city of Dubai, over the years they travelled the world together enjoying adventures of a lifetime. Loved unconditionally, Jennifer (Dan) and Christopher could not have asked for a more supportive and caring father. He was “Papa” to his grandchildren Nicole and Brooke on whom the sun rose and set, the three of them sharing treasured moments of mischief and delight. Hugh leaves behind his twin brother Frank (Bari-Lynne) and David (Heather), nieces and nephews, and a circle of beloved friends who enriched his life in countless ways.
The family wishes to thank Drs. Leung and Robson and their teams at North York General Hospital and the entire staff at Amica Bayview Gardens for their compassion and care. A celebration honouring Hugh’s life will be held on the other side of the pandemic. For those wishing to receive further information, please email butterscelebrationoflife@gmail.com. In lieu of flowers, contributions to www.kidsincamp.com or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.