Hugh McLafferty, of Lethbridge, passed away peacefully, on Friday, November 18, 2011, at Lethbridge Regional Hospital, with his family at his side. His quiet courage was evident to all those who knew and loved him throughout his 92 years. Dad is survived by Marie, his wife of 65 years. The special bond they shared is something to be admired…they were forever a team! Their teamwork began in the Crowsnest Pass, where he worked for 18 years, in the Bellevue and Adnac coal mines, first as a miner and then eventually as a fire boss. In 1955, the mines closed, so they moved to Lethbridge where he was employed by AGT for 29 years. After retirement they started a new life in Calgary, building a beautiful dream home with new adventures in mind. In 2003 they returned to Lethbridge to be closer to their growing extended family. Dad will forever be remembered as a kind and gentle man who took such pride in his family and was involved in everything we did…as a boxer, a runner, and a coach, his love of sports had a huge impact on the path our lives would take and he was our biggest FAN.
Our “special” Dad, granddad, and great granddad, will always be remembered by: his daughters: Sheryl Holthe of Lethbridge, Colleen (Grant) Frier of the Crowsnest Pass; his Granddaughters: Kelly (Tom) Mortlock of Medicine Hat, Shannon (Cheyno) Finnie of Lethbridge; his great-grandchildren: Marcus, Russell, Nathyn, and Jordan Mortlock of Medicine Hat; Marshall, Emmitt, and Payton Finnie of Lethbridge. He was predeceased by his son in law, Ron Holthe, in 2010. Dad’s Irish eyes were always smiling. His death leaves a heartache no one can heal, His love leaves a memory no one can steal. Our thank you to the many medical specialists who cared for Dad over the past eight years. Special thanks to the Lethbridge Community Care staff for your compassion and friendship. As per Dad’s wishes there will be a private family service. In memory of our Dad, donations may be made to Kidsport Lethbridge, 1001- 3rd Avenue South, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1J 0J3. 403-381-8331 Honoured to serve the family, CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORIUM, 2800 Mayor Magrath Drive South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 7B1. Telephone 403-381-7777. E-mail: care@cornerstonefh.ca