Ernest Patrick Albert Hughes

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Ernest Patrick Albert Hughes, who courageously battled bladder cancer for over two years.

Patrick was born in Saint John, NB, Canada, as the firstborn to Ernest Walter Joseph and Elsie Madeline Hughes (née Jefferson). In the late 1940s, the family relocated to Port Colborne, ON, seeking employment opportunities. Tragically, Patrick's life was profoundly impacted when his mother, Elsie, passed away at the age of 28 in a drowning accident, a loss that forever altered the trajectory of Patrick’s life. Unable to care for his four children, Ernest placed the youngest for adoption, and Patrick, along with his other sibling, was entrusted to the Catholic Children’s Aid Society.

At age 10, Patrick entered a series of foster homes but ran away from each, leading to his placement in a Catholic boys' reform school. Once a devout altar boy, Patrick's faith was deeply shaken by the experiences he endured during these formative years. At 14, recognizing that reform school was not suitable for him, Patrick was placed with a foster family, where he worked on a dairy farm. He loved the hard work and farm life, finding solace and purpose in the routine. At 16, he gained legal independence and moved on to forge his own path.

Patrick moved to Toronto, ON, to live near his father, taking on various jobs, including working at Woolworth’s luncheon counter and ushering at the Parliament Theatre. At 18, he enlisted in the Canadian Army, completing a tour in Winnipeg, MB. Upon returning to Toronto, he worked at the Royal Bank of Canada before transitioning to mechanical operations at Postal Promotions, where he advanced to lead mechanic and production supervisor.

In 1975, Patrick pursued a passion for driving, earning a Class A license (CDL). His career included roles at Fina (now PetroCanada), Consolidated Bathurst, and the Department of Health. In 1984, he became an owner/operator for Highland Transport. He worked for Mackenzie Tank Lines and later became an owner/operator contracted with Federal Express (Ground), retiring in 2006.

Patrick was a man who loathed change, yet his love for his family outweighed his reluctance. After much persuasion and with their best interests at heart, he made the life-changing decision to move from Canada to the United States. In 1993, after obtaining his green card, he relocated to Sherrills Ford, NC—a true testament to his devotion. On August 28, 2001, Patrick proudly became a U.S. citizen, embracing his new home while never forgetting his roots.

Patrick’s life was one of resilience, love, and devotion. He was previously married, and in 1977, he began a lifelong partnership with Connie, his beloved wife of 44 years. Their greatest blessing came in 1984 with the adoption of their daughter, Ashleigh Shannon. Patrick embraced the role of stay-at-home parent—a progressive choice at the time—allowing him to form a deep and lasting bond with his daughter. After six months, he returned to his career and founded Ash-Line Transport Inc.

A quiet and private man, Patrick was deeply observant and a thoughtful listener. His subtle humor earned him the affectionate nickname “Grumpy,” which he carried with pride. He found joy in the outdoors, spending weekends camping in every season and snowmobiling in the winters. Patrick was also passionate about coaching girls’ softball and enthusiastically supported Ashleigh’s swimming, softball, and ringette (hockey) activities. In later years, he and Connie traveled extensively, enjoying cruises to the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Panama, and New England. More recently, he rekindled his love for camping, exploring the beauty of the North Carolina mountains.

Patrick is survived by his loving wife, Connie Hughes; his cherished daughter, Ashleigh Shannon Hughes; his sister, Diane Izzett (Jim); sister-in-law Angie Grenke (Dave); brother-in-law Dirk Kleinholz (Rita); nieces Leanne Kimberley Izzett (Glenn) and Charmaine Grenke Archer (Eric); nephews Danny Izzett (Sherry), Jason Grenke (Linda), and Tyson Grenke (Cristina).

Many thanks to the team at CenterWell—especially Chaz, Alex, and Josh—for working tirelessly to help Patrick rebuild his strength, even when he resisted. Though his will remained strong, Patrick came to accept his fate in recent weeks, knowing his body could no longer fight this disease. In those final moments, he found peace, gratefully welcoming Christ back into his heart.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Dr. Benjamin Rush, Ashley, Morgan, and Teresa for their unwavering support, care, and compassion throughout this difficult journey with cancer. A very special thank you to Jenny and Laura from Iredell Palliative and Hospice Care for their kindness in tending to Patrick’s needs and preserving his dignity until the very end.

We are also profoundly grateful to Dr. Robert Bundy and his dedicated nurses for their exceptional care and support over the past 20 years.

Patrick’s wishes were to forgo a formal service, and cremation will take place. Family and friends are invited to honor his memory at Mezzaluna II (Statesville) on April 10 from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital are appreciated. Click Here