It is with the deepest sadness that our family announces the sudden passing of Monte Hewson on April 2, 2024, at the age of 73. He died at the Guelph General Hospital surrounded by his loving family and the incredible staff that eased his last days.
Survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Ann; son, Thomas (Hilary) Hewson; daughter, Gillian (Greg White) Hewson; twin brother, Mitchell (Mary) Hewson; and his pride and joy, his grandkids: Aubrey, Adelyn, Georgia, and Graydon. Also survived by his siblings, Murray (Denise) Doupe and Joan (Peter) Jeffery.
Monte was born in Collingwood, Ontario, on October 2, 1950, and was the “older” twin brother to his best friend, Mitchell. He met his wife in the high school band at Collingwood Collegiate Institute in 1967, where they fell in love and began their lifelong journey together.
He graduated from Humber College in Landscape Technology in 1973. Monte opened the iconic “Monte’s Place Ltd” flower and gift store in Guelph, ON, in 1980, where he served the Guelph community for 40 years, creating an atmosphere that welcomed everyone. His store gained international presence when he and his talented staff were selected to design flowers for the royal family during their Canadian tour. Additionally, Monte’s Place was honoured with the Guelph Chamber of Commerce Retailer of the Year Award, reflecting its excellence and community commitment.
A passionate community servant, Monte was a long-time member of the Guelph Rotary Club and devoted his time and resources to various local causes. He recently joined the Three Willows United Church, where his presence was always one of love and joy.
He had a larger-than-life personality and loved skiing, reading, playing the saxophone in the New Horizons band, and the piano. He cherished spending time at his lake house in Bluewater, Ontario, and enjoying a smart drink, often a Gibson’s Finest on ice. He believed in radiating good energy to everyone he met, which is why he was so loved by his friends, nieces, nephews, co-workers, neighbours, and virtually everyone who met him.
But above all, his love and dedication to his family was unparalleled. He was a pillar of guidance and faith for his children and the best grandpa to his four grandkids. He created a craft room in their home, where he often laughed and worked on fun art projects with them. He regularly prepared big family meals with no shortage of dessert, adorning the table with florals and napkins. His place at our table will be incredibly missed.
In honouring Monte's legacy, donations can be made to the Three Willows United Church or the Guelph Humane Society.
Details of the celebration of Monte’s life will be shared in the coming weeks.