Albert Joseph (Hurch) Hurtubise, Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class Boatswain Trade Group 3, RCN

In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar

Albert Joseph (Hurch) Hurtubise, M.I.D.

Anti-Aircraft Gunner, RCNVR

Chief Petty Officer Boatswain Trade Group 3, RCN

Died: 02 Sep 2002, Ottawa, Ontario

HURTUBISE, Albert Joseph (Hurch) - Veteran Second World War and Korean War - Crossed over peacefully at home, with his two loving Maries by his side on Monday, September 2, 2002, age 79, after a valiant battle with cancer. Despite its debilitating effects, Albert lived with dignity, enthusiasm and humor to the end. Prior to his passing, Albert celebrated his wonderful life with his dear family and close friends at an RPC. A devoted, loving husband, father, and grandpa, his warm smile and caring heart will be forever missed by those he now watches over - Marie, his beloved wife of 51 years; his children Marie, Robert (Sophie), Albert (Pauline) and Louise (Pierre); his grandchildren Ashley, Joey, Stephanie, Patrick, Jonathan and Anthony; his godchild Sylvie and his sisters- and- brothers-in-law. Albert has reunited with his predeceased parents Olivine Giroux and Albert and his brother Pierre. Albert joined the Navy in 1941 and proudly served on the Swansea, Warrior, Magnificent, Iroquois and St-Laurent, among others. He was awarded a distinguished honor - a Mention in Despatches. After 21 years he retired and began his equally long teaching career and, not one to ever retire, he then worked with his son Robert in security. Heartfelt thanks to family and friends who visited, called or inquired about Albert's health (you know who you are). Special thanks to Dr. Virginia Hurdon, Palliative Care, Dr. Sean Malone, oncologist, ORCC and all the "angel" staff who made visits pleasant; the VON especially Nicole Viau; CCAC and Brenda Burns, all of whom provided constant compassionate care to our very special Dad. In memoriam donations may be made to the Ottawa Regional Cancer Centre Foundation. Cremation followed by a private family service. "You're a good man, Gunga Din!" "We love you." (Ottawa Citizen 07 Sep 2002)

Citation for Mentioned in Despatches: HURTUBISE, Albert Joseph, A/LS, V6971 - Mention in Despatches - RCNVR, HMCS SWANSEA - Awarded as per Canada Gazette of 20 January 1945 and London Gazette of 24 October 1944. "For good service in the destruction of an enemy submarine." Paraphrased from news sources - While rescuing survivors from U-448 with the whaler from HMCS Swansea, a German officer, who had been rescued, pulled a pistol from his pocket. LS Hurtubise quickly subdued and disarmed the officer and threw the pistol overboard.

Ships served in:

HMCS SWANSEA - Served in Swansea in 1944 as a LS