It is with great sadness, but also immense gratitude for a life so beautifully lived, that the family of Eileen Hughes announces her peaceful passing in January 2026 at the age of 97.

Born on July 19, 1928, in Regina, Saskatchewan, Eileen was raised during the Great Depression. Those early years on the family farm shaped the woman she would become—strong, hardworking, practical, and fiercely independent. She often shared stories of helping her parents, caring for the farm and its animals, and riding her horse across the prairie. Even after losing her father as a teenager, she maintained the resilience and determination she had learned from her parents, especially her mother.

Eileen was first and foremost devoted to her family. She raised four children before meeting the love of her life, Ken Hughes. Together they blended their family, raising six children: Darlene, Lindy, Rocky, Vince, Nelson, and Shane. Their marriage was a true partnership built on love, respect, trust, and hard work.

Together, Eileen and Ken built several successful businesses, beginning with a gravel truck venture before moving to Grande Prairie in the mid-1970s. They later established a pilot car company, a CB and VHF radio business, and a tachograph company. While Ken was known throughout the trucking industry, those who knew them recognized that Eileen's steady hand, financial wisdom, and unwavering support were instrumental in every success they shared.

Beyond her work, Eileen found her greatest joy in the simple pleasures of life. She adored her acreage, where she spent countless hours tending beautiful flower gardens, especially her beloved daisies. Her garden became her sanctuary, complete with a quiet sitting area where she could enjoy a cup of tea surrounded by the beauty she had created.

Her love for animals was legendary. Horses, dogs, cats, rabbits, and countless strays all found a place in her heart—and often in her home. Eileen believed every animal deserved kindness, and over the years many found a forever home because of her compassion.

Her faith as one of Jehovah's Witnesses became an important part of her life, bringing her peace and hope while strengthening the values of kindness, humility, and compassion that had always defined her character.

To her family, Eileen was the heart that held everyone together. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, mentor, and friend. She leaves behind six children, 17 grandchildren, and 28 great-grandchildren, each carrying forward the values she lived every day: work hard, love your family, help others, and always do your best.

We will forever remember Eileen’s warm smile, quiet strength, quick wit, unwavering determination, and the gentle authority that naturally earned respect. Though small in stature, she possessed an incredible presence and a heart that made everyone feel welcome.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Ken, whom she deeply loved and missed.

Although our hearts are broken, we take comfort in the countless memories she leaves behind and in knowing that her legacy lives on through the family she loved so dearly.

A private service celebrating Eileen's life will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026.

If Eileen could speak to us today, she would likely smile and ask, "Why is it so quiet? Where's the music? Let's dance."