Charles Bernard Hughson

Our beloved brother, Charles Hughson, passed away on May 12, 2026 at the age of 81 in London, Ontario after a six year battle with cancer. Charles was born and raised in the Shetland Islands, Scotland in 1944, the fourth child and only son of Katie and Tom.

Growing up in the Shetland Islands surrounded by the sea meant Charles had easy access to the beach and to the water and was often in it playing or being pulled out. When he was five, he and his best friend Brian decided they wanted to sail to America in a rowing boat. Fortunately, they were stopped before they went too far out to sea.

Some of his first jobs included skinning dogfish at one of the local fish factories as well as work as a fisherman on his stepfather’s fishing boat. He then went on to study political economy at Aberdeen University and graduated with second class honours. After his graduation, he moved to London, England where he pursued a career in investment banking. In 1975 he emigrated to Canada to Edmonton, Alberta to join some of his family. Initially, he worked for the Alberta government as an investment manager for the Alberta Heritage Trust Fund. After five years, he moved to London, Ontario and worked as an investment manager and vice president for London Life, and later for Caldwell Securities.

Even though Charles emigrated to Canada and enjoyed travelling to other countries, he had a great love for the Shetland Islands, which was always “home” for him. He was a gifted storyteller, a very good sailor, an excellent cook, and he developed a palate for fine wine and gourmet food. He had a generous heart and provided help and support to his family and his wife’s family when needed.

Charles is survived by two sons Sean and Callum and two granddaughter’s through Sean, Tennille and Annabel. He is predeceased by his sister Audrey and brother-in-law Iain and survived by sisters Louise (John), Diane (John), and two half sisters Michelle (Randy) and Patricia as well as many nieces and nephews, and their children. He will be sorely missed by many.

The family wishes to acknowledge with deep appreciation and gratitude all the help and support Charles received in his later years from his good friend Marwen Nashar (Mars) and other friends, including Tess Stevens and Mark Manias.

Charles expressed gratitude for the excellent care and attention he received at St. Joseph’s Hospice, London, Ontario . In honour of his passing donations made to support the Hospice at. https://www.sjhospicelondon.com/donate-now are gratefully appreciated.

Online condolences at www.oneilfuneralhome.ca