John Anthony McHugh

Key Largo:  John McHugh passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Medford, Massachusetts to John McHugh and Aida (Natale) McHugh.

He spent his youth in Woburn, Ma, He graduated from Woburn High School and then attended the University of Massachusetts Boston Campus.  He graduated with an English and Physics degree.  After graduation he ran a shell station in Lawrence, Ma.  He received many awards from Shell Oil.

In 1977 he and his wife Carol bought a 25 unit motel in the beautiful Squam Lakes area.  They operated White Oak Motel for 43 years.  John enjoyed running the motel which gave him the opportunity to work with his wife and son.  John and Carol enjoyed life together whether it be working, traveling or enjoying family. It was seasonal and they were able to winter in the Florida Keys. John built his house in Florida in 1985 with the help of friends and his wife.   After retirement they became full time residents of the Keys. 

His biggest joy was spending time with friends and family.  He loved to be out on the water boating,  swimming and enjoying the beautiful Florida Keys sunsets.  He was happiest when his son, his son’s wife and grandson were visiting to fish and go boating with him.  He enjoyed many trips to Jekyll Island, Daytona Beach, and side trips to our friends on the St. Johns River.

John is survived by his wife of 53 years, his son John and his wife Michelle, his grandson Grady, and Granddaughters Brittany Samantha and Brianna. His sister Ann Sillari.  He had many close nephews and nieces. Many of the nieces and nephews spent their summers helping us at White Oak.    He was predeceased by his parents John and Aida McHugh, his sister Colleen Gallo.

We would like to express our gratitude to Mariner’s ICU, Dr Turbessi, Dr Woods, Dr Mahoney and Chapters  Hospice and Paige Clem  for their support and kindness.  I also want to thank Zaneta and her wonderful  group of nurses that make getting chemo comfortable and upbeat.  Their kindness will be remembered.

There are no calling hours. John’s wish was to be cremated and his ashes spread in Florida Bay and in White Oak Pond. He doesn’t want anyone to be sad, but to celebrate his life.   In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St Jude’s in remembrance of his nephew Nichols Sillari  or a charity of your choice.