HUGH THOMAS PYBUS

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HUGH THOMAS PYBUS Born at Manitou, MB, July 6, 1921, passed away in White Rock, BC on May 7, 2004. He was the youngest of four sons of Manitoba pioneers Thomas Pybus and Elizabeth (Wray) Pybus. Predeceased by his brothers Allin, Clarence and Ernest, and survived by his beloved wife Rose (of White Rock) whom he married in August 1942, son Brian and daughter-in-law Eugena (of New Westminster, BC), sisters-in-law Vera Pybus (of Winnipeg, MB), Betty Pybus (of Sarnia, ON), nieces and nephews. He served in the Canadian Army for 13 years, seeing action in the Second World War during the invasion of Sicily and in the campaigns through Italy and in North-West Europe. Following his service he entered business, enjoying a successful career in Winnipeg as a realtor and mortgage broker, and together with his brother Clarence built what was in its day the largest private mortgage company in Manitoba. He briefly retired at 45, found it not much to his liking and returned to the business world for another 10 years. Of all his achievements during his career, the one he was proudest of was his reputation for integrity: once given, his word was quite literally his bond. In his day Dad came to know Premiers and paupers, the great and the humble, the privileged and the deprived. To him, each was indistinguishable, a human being who deserved respect in equal measure, irregardless of his or her station in life. Position, origin or belief were all of no consequence: it was the individual who was important to him. He had a special affection for those who struggled against all odds to make a better life for themselves and their families, and he went to extraordinary lengths to help. In 1975 he and Rose relocated to White Rock. He was a keen traveller, and it became an annual tradition that he and Rose and close friends took up residence in Palm Springs every winter, pursuing sunshine and golf. A superb athlete in his youth, Dad enjoyed all sports throughout his life and in particular became a familiar and formidable figure on the links. He was a devoted Freemason (Scottish Rite) and an enthusiastic member of Khartoum Shrine Temples Cycle Escort. It would be difficult to find a more passionate booster of Shriners Hospitals for Sick Children. Life for Dad was a fascinating journey of high adventure, and adventures he had in great quantity. Yet he always retained a sense of humility and gratefulness, even for the smallest of kindnesses that many of the rest of us would take for granted. In the best traditions of philanthropy, his generosity was quietly given with no expectation of repayment. His one condition was that when the recipient was able, to in turn help someone else. He was greatly loved and will be missed by many. For those who wish to celebrate the life of a remarkable man, a service will be held at the Chapel of Victory Memorial Park Funeral Centre, 14831-28th Ave., Surrey on Friday, May 14, at 11:00 a.m., with burial to follow. Visitation time will be held on Thursday, May 13, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Victory Memorial Park Funeral Centre. In lieu of flowers donations to St. Johns Presbyterian Church of White Rock or any charity of your choice, would be appreciated. VICTORY MEMORIAL PARK FUNERAL CENTRE 604-536-6522

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 12, 2004