It is with great sadness that we share the following news.
Dr. A. Hugh Munby, Maître D’Armes, Head Coach Emeritus, and Professor Emeritus, passed away yesterday afternoon at Providence Care Hospital.
Hugh joined Queen’s Fencing in 1985 as Assistant Coach and Coach of the Women’s Team before becoming Head Coach in 2004. Ill-health forced him to step back from coaching duties at the end of 2016.
In addition to leading QFC to numerous championship victories, he also shepherded the Club through many significant changes, including the University’s restructuring of the sports model on campus. Through his tenacity and unwavering dedication to the Club – and to his fencers – Hugh ensured that QFC grew ever stronger.
In his 33 years with Queen’s Fencing as well as a long-time OFA board member, Coach Hugh touched the lives of hundreds of fencers at the University and in the wider fencing community. He will be fondly remembered for his wit, his charm, and for his passion for the sport.
Hugh has asked that the community not be said for him, that he has had a wonderful life with his fencers, and that he loved every one of them. His family has shared his new motto – “smile” – and ask that we remember his smile, and know that he always has us in his heart.
At this point, the Munby family asks that the community respect their privacy, and refrain from calling or sending messages. We will share more information as they become available.
Rest in Peace Hugh, we will miss you.
