Hugh Winsor had an insatiable appetite for politics, journalism and the lively conversation that occurs around the intersection of the two. 

Long after he retired as a columnist for The Globe and Mail, Hugh remained active and committed to his craft. 

He was a director with the Canadian Journalism Foundation. He was also a founder and 25-year member of the Canadian Committee for World Press Freedom, which was renamed World Press Freedom Canada (WPFC).

His colleagues at WPFC valued his deep knowledge of the news business and national politics, as well as his commitment, kindness and openness to change as new generations brought fresh perspectives to the group.

“Hugh was a revered committee member and exemplar of the craft who fiercely advocated for Canadians’ Charter right to a free press,” said WPFC President Heather Bakken. “His shoes are too big to fill and he will be dearly missed.”

Hugh died peacefully surrounded by his family on March 14, following a stroke. He was 87.

Born in New Brunswick, he was a graduate of Queen’s University. His first byline in The Globe and Mail was in 1969.

He was a longtime member of the Parliamentary Press Gallery and received its prestigious Charles Lynch Award in recognition of outstanding coverage of national issues. 

On retirement, he was given lifetime membership status and always enjoyed its Parliament Hill events and celebrations.

Hugh was a correspondent and producer for CBC’s The Journal when it first aired before returning to The Globe and Mail. 

His must-read political affairs column, “The Power Game,” ran from 1997 to 2005. He was invested as a member of the Order of Canada in 2005, with a citation that read in part: “His analysis and commentaries have contributed to countless Canadian political debates, helping to strengthen our democracy.”

HIs friends at WPFC send our condolences to his wife, Christina Cameron, and their family.