Obituary of David James McHugh (CARD OF THANKS)

Card of Thanks – David James McHugh

The family of the late beloved David James McHugh would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all who helped ease our sorrow upon the passing of our dear son, brother, father, uncle, nephew, cousin, mentor, and friend. We will never forget the sincere outpouring of love and support. Your messages, gifts of food, donations, flowers, cards, music, tributes, and the gift of your time and compassionate company continue to help immeasurably as we make our transition to life without him in our midst. Thank you to the medical technicians, physicians and nurses, who treated Dave with unfailing kindness and dignity. Your gentleness, compassion, and encouraging care for Dave live on as a comforting memory. Thank you to those friends who walked with Dave, sharing in the adventures and happiness that marked his life. As he faced his health challenges, he continued to be upheld by so many, whether it was through a visit, a text, a phone call, a card, checking in with family to ask how he was faring, doing chores for his Mom, praying for him, playing music for him, and simply holding him in your loving thoughts. These caring acts and sentiments no doubt encouraged him immensely . Dave’s many friends from the musical and entertainment communities shared many stories and glimpses into both his personal and professional lives; thank you. Thank you to Mindy Holloway of Fillatre’s Funeral Home, and to Father Lainey and the Bereavement Committee of Sacred Heart Parish.

Thank you, all, for your presence and love. Thank you for caring for our dear Dave. You have all left an indelible mark on our hearts. 

What is Success?

To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children … to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded!

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

With gratitude and love, The McHugh Family

David James McHugh, May 26, 1967 - November 8, 2024, Corner Brook, NL

Home’s the most excellent place of all. - Neil Diamond

It is with immense sorrow and profound heartbreak that the family of David James McHugh announces his passing on November 8, 2024, in Corner Brook, NL, at the age of 57. Dave was a deeply cherished and infinitely loved father, son, brother, nephew, uncle, and friend. 

Dave carved out a fulfilling and award-winning career as a beloved and popular musician, playing and singing at venues in his home province of NL, across the country, and in international ports of call. He endeared himself to countless audiences with his musicianship, warmth, love of a good time, and his sense of humour. Dave lived a rich, joyful, and adventurous life, and he was fearless and tireless when working on his latest project, whether it was a new song, a creative woodworking project, or pitching in to help a friend. He loved his road trips, his holidays down south, and his chats with people from every imaginable walk of life. He was a tireless volunteer. He derived happiness from life’s simple pleasures, such as a walk along a quiet path, a cup of tea, a bike ride, fishing, reading, and a chat with a kindred spirit. This love of simplicity was complemented by his interest in deep learning. He read voraciously, and enjoyed discussing ideas with others. He was a deep thinker. And he was one of the brightest lights imaginable. He loved the company of his family and friends.

Most of all, Dave was a kind, loving, accepting, and encouraging support in the lives of many. He sought to bring comfort and hope to those who needed a helping hand, and he often lent an empathetic ear to people who just knew that he would listen and care. He challenged injustice. He wanted to do his bit to promote harmony; he made the world a far better place with his gentle and humble presence. And when Dave was in a room, there was laughter and a break from worry. There were few things on this planet that Dave loved more than making people laugh. And there was that smile; it could illuminate a room and melt a heart. 

Left to mourn the loss of Dave are his beloved children, Rebecca and Evan (Hailey), his dear mother, Ann McHugh, his loving and devoted siblings: Susan Taylor, Paula McHugh Grudich, Brian (Alison) McHugh, Michael (Charlene) McHugh, and Cathy (John) Boyd; the mother of his children, Debbie Pike; The Pike family; many uncles and aunts, including Reverend David & Marion Cook, Carl & Linda McHugh, Bern & Linda McHugh, Sharon McHugh, Carole McHugh; special neighbours Wally & Helen Vincent, cousin Paul Pike, nephews and nieces Jeffery, Michael, Jenny, Mike, James, Andrew, Robyn, David, Terri, Jordan, Erica, Natalie, Neil, and D.J., and countless other dear cousins and friends, especially Mene Woodward and Brian Dicks. Many other treasured friends and cousins played an integral role in Dave’s life; rest assured it was evident to his family just  how important you were to him.  Dave cherished you.

Dave was predeceased by his loving father (and perhaps his greatest fan), Gerald McHugh.

Dave’s life and legacy will be quietly celebrated in a small, private gathering of family and friends. Then, on November 30th, from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., relatives and friends of Dave are lovingly invited to gather together in celebration to commemorate him in a day of music, memories, and gratitude at the Corner Brook Civic Centre. At that time, donations in support of various charities (to be announced) will be accepted in his memory. Dave had once said that if people ever wanted to remember him, they could do an act of kindness for someone. 

Dave’s family would like to thank his wonderful doctors and nurses at Western Memorial Regional Hospital, Corner Brook. Their compassion and kindness will never be forgotten.

Dave’s life was well-lived; many have breathed more easily because of his compassion. He left these words, pencilled on a piece of paper: “The body is only one level of life; the better part is invisible. Our love is eternal and we will likely meet again.” Forever loved, always missed, but never forgotten. Thank you for your courage, the music, the adventure, the laughter, and the love, Dave. You will always be our darling and our hero. We will love you forever. 

“Home will always be home. It’s always been that way.” - David McHugh