Mon. Jun 16th, 2025

Rochester, NY Obituary; Hugh Malcolm, 66, passed away Jan. 16 after illness

Hugh passed away peacefully on January 16, 2025, at the age of 66, after a long and courageous battle with illness. He was surrounded by his loving family in his home in Rochester, New York, when he passed.

Hugh’s death marks the end of an era for all who knew him, as he was a man whose kindness, generosity, and commitment to his loved ones touched many lives.

Hugh Malcolm was born on June 22, 1958, in Rochester, New York, to the late Charles and Eleanor (Smith) Malcolm. From a young age, Hugh displayed a natural curiosity and a strong work ethic. He graduated from John Marshall High School in 1976, where he was known for his intelligence, humility, and dedication to helping others.

After high school, Hugh went on to earn a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Rochester, where he developed his deep love for problem-solving and hands-on work. Hugh’s career as an engineer spanned over 40 years, during which time he made significant contributions to several industries, including manufacturing, aerospace, and renewable energy.

He worked for several local companies in the Rochester area and was instrumental in developing innovative solutions that improved efficiency and sustainability in his field. Hugh was known for his attention to detail, his ability to mentor young engineers, and his passion for making a difference through his work. He took great pride in his role as an educator and was often sought after for his expertise.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Hugh was deeply committed to his community. He volunteered with various local organizations, including Habitat for Humanity, and dedicated countless hours to mentoring young students interested in engineering and STEM fields. He believed strongly in the power of education and giving back to the community that had given so much to him.

His contributions to Rochester, both in his professional life and through his volunteer work, have left an indelible mark on the city he loved. Hugh was a devoted family man who found his greatest joy in the company of his loved ones. In 1983, he married the love of his life, Laura (Davis) Malcolm, and together they built a beautiful life filled with laughter, love, and countless memories.

The two were inseparable, partners in every sense of the word, and their relationship was a model of dedication and mutual respect. Hugh and Laura were blessed with two children, Sarah (David) Thompson and Christopher (Rachel) Malcolm, both of whom he adored. He was a proud and loving father, always offering support, guidance, and encouragement to his children as they navigated their own journeys in life.

Hugh’s role as a grandfather brought him even greater joy. He doted on his four grandchildren—Lucas, Olivia, Mason, and Ella—taking every opportunity to spend time with them, whether it was attending their school performances, teaching them how to build projects in the workshop, or simply enjoying an afternoon in the backyard. His legacy as a father and grandfather will live on through his children and grandchildren, who will carry forward the lessons of love, hard work, and integrity that Hugh instilled in them.

A memorial service to honor Hugh’s life will be held on Friday, January 19, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the First Presbyterian Church of Rochester, located at 1211 Genesee St, Rochester, NY. A reception will follow the service in the church fellowship hall. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Hugh’s memory to the American Cancer Society or to the University of Rochester’s engineering scholarship fund, both causes he supported with great passion. May Hugh Malcolm rest in peace, knowing that his life was filled with love and purpose, and that his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

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