Messages to Hugh

Let's all cheer Hugh up by sending him messages.  Include funny memories, stories or current events.  Make sure that you sign it by leaving your name after your message.  Add each story as a comment to this entry.  Thanks.  Camille

29 comments:

  1. Hugh - it was great to see you at Jr Jazz last winter after not seeing you for so many years since the good ol' days at the Kook House. I'm shocked to hear this news, but as a fellow ref I can appreciate your desire to be on the field. Hopefully you'll get another shot at it soon.

    In hoc, John Haglund

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  2. Hey brother thinking of you, Diane and kids. Friends and brothers we'll always be!!.Alofa atu, God Bless!

    Carson Gautavai

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  3. Well maybe I can’t, but I did get a pretty good sense. My brother-in-law, the rock of Gibraltar, a pillar of faith and an example of true courage learned yesterday he has a terminal disease.

    As we gathered together, family and friends, one could only be amazed at his strength and conviction. Hugh has been, is today and always will be a God-fearing man. He maintains deep convictions valuing life. He understands the blessings he has received while living here on earth. He knows with certainty that there is a purpose to his life path.

    There were special times as we talked as a group; the spirit of love attended us. Hugh suggested if we all put our personal trials in the middle of the room, each of us would take ours back. Hugh then confirmed he would gladly take his; perhaps so others wouldn’t have to.

    I personally believe he chose his path long ago, knowing perhaps others might not have too, or that those of us who would know him could gain strength as witnesses of his endurance, patience and devotion. Hugh’s example extends as a husband, a father, a son, a brother, and a friend. After we shared time together, shed tears of gratitude and felt the fear of the unknown; Hugh arose to give each of us a hug.

    It was at this time I witnessed a miracle. I saw and felt something I will never forget. There are times in my life I have felt something similar to what I was feeling deep inside. Times I have not and may never forget. These have come in witnessing the birth of my children, standing at my father’s bedside as he passed, watching the changing of the guard at the tomb of the unknown soldier, standing at Martins Cove or simply participating in feeling a mothers love.

    The miracle that played out before my eyes was Hugh, a man of large stature, hugging his youngest son Connor (the best looking kid in middle school), who is thirteen years old. As Connor approached his dad, nearly out of tears, the two embraced. Hugh, standing just over six feet tall and Connor being about five foot six, then participated together in an embrace that was as if they were two eternal beings meeting in mortality.

    As Hugh’s body engulfed his son, Connor placed his head on his father’s massive chest. Hugh’s heart penetrated his son’s spirit as he placed his hand on the back of his head. Hugh then rested his chin and cheek on Connor stating, “My you certainly have grown up my son.”

    I felt as if their mortality lifted for a moment as they participated in an embrace that will remain part of their lives forever. They held each other for some time, not wanting the feeling to end and long enough to penetrate a lifetime. I knew then and will never forget that this man, my brother-in-law, Connor’s father, will never leave his side. He will stand as his guardian, as he has forever!

    The feeling they must have felt could only be described as phenomenal; just being in the room witnessing touched me as it did. My knowledge is pure, my experience was real and for a moment, “I could only imagine” knowing their connection was necessary and eternal.

    Jaren

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  4. Hey Hugh,
    John and I want you to know how much we love you and your family. We had a very emotional testimony meeting yesterday and all of us there are praying for you. We understand today your appetite is coming back. That's great news! What a great way this is to keep in touch. Technology is amazing. Now we don't have to bug Diane all the time with questions. John says you are his "Ironman." We have great admiration for your courage and patience with your challenges.

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  5. Hugh,

    What the fetch? Hope you are better soon. Want to see you on the pitch soon. You are in our prayers.

    Bruce

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  6. Dear Hugh,

    This is such a wonderful blog! After reading it, it's easy to see that you're truly loved in the neighborhood, ward, and in the soccer community...just to name a few. So many people love you and your family, and please count the Bagleys in that group too! You probably don't even know that many ways you, Diane, and your kids have blessed our lives since we moved into the neighborhood almost 5 years ago. For instance: on your and Diane's suggestion, Jacob tried out for Sparta years ago. He absolutely LOVES his team, and after playing together for three years, some of his teammates are his best friends. Also, Jacob is a student of Ellen Baggaley's--a teacher I found out about from Diane and a few others. When I first spoke to Ellen, I mentioned you guys, and got an earful of praise for your kids and also for you and Diane. The two of you are such amazing parents--such great examples to follow. And speaking of Diane. I admire and respect her so much. Almost six months in the Nursery working together wasn't long enough in my book, but it was just enough time to get to know her and grow to love her, which came so naturally! She radiates love for children and the gospel. And I've never been more entertained than hearing some of Diane's story about your kids...your kids are wonderful and I wish I knew them better, but every encounter with them has been so positive. I want you all to know that we love you. Lee, the boys and I are praying for you and your family. We are thinking of ways we can be of service to you, and have some good ideas. We are working on a few! From the bottom of my heart, I pray that your future holds many, many more days of happiness together. Thank you for blessing our lives, and the lives of countless others, and we know that the Lord bless you in return. Love, The Bagleys--Caroline, Lee, & the boys

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  7. Hugh, you and your wonderful family are always in our prayers. You made us feel so welcome when we first moved into the ward, and we have many fond memories of ward parties and activities with you. We love you Hugh and hope to see you on the up and up soon.
    Justin, Natalie, and Stanford

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  8. We know the Dearden family through Brighton basketball. Hugh was very instrumental in helping with the Booster club and setting up the Brighton basketball program and banners. Hugh is a quiet man; but one whom we knew would go out of his way to help us out whenever we needed him. Thanks Hugh!!! We are all praying for you and your family!
    love,
    Al, Laura, John and Scott Sherwood

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  9. Hugh,
    A few months ago, we were talking at State Cup. I told you that we were saying our prayers for you and the family. You spoke about how much you felt those prayers. Your faith in and gratitude for the prayers beamed from your face. It inspired even more prayers. Keep counting all the blessings -- you have so many!! Love to all the Deardens!! Meg, Scott, Chris, Emily, and Nick Lowrimore

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  10. Hugh, you are a wonderful man. You can always tell the value of a man by then people around him. "By their fruit ye shall know them." You have created a wonderful family and I have been blessed to know them. May God bless you and your family.

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  11. Dear Dearden Family,

    It is with sadness that we leave you this message.

    We are so deeply sorry for this to be happening to such an amazing man and family! Hugh has brought many wonderful memories from years past and we as a family will cherish them forever.

    We pray that you as a family will be comforted with Faith, Hope and Peace. Faith in knowing that you will be together again, Hope that tomorrow will bring you closer to the ultimate eternal goal. And that your hearts can have Peace at this difficult time.

    To Hugh’s dear family; our thoughts and prayers are with you!

    “The angels are always near to those who are grieving, to whisper to them that their loved ones are safe in the hand of God”.

    With Love,

    The Swan Family

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  12. My heart has been so full of love and emotion for Hugh, Diane and the family. We joined the Sparta family just a few years ago after Aaron got “recruited” strongly by a phone call from Diane. I am so grateful that are paths crossed. I got to know Diane better as we were roommates in Arizona on a soccer trip with our boys over a year ago. We hit it off and I felt as though we had known each other for a long time. Soccer teams become extended family as you practice, attend games and travel together. I learned then what close family ties they had. Throughout the last few years I have seen Hugh’s intensity for the game of soccer as he managed our Sparta team. I always felt his concern for each of the boys as he encouraged them to strive to be better and work harder. Each of the boys has a special relationship with him. I have seen the friendship that he has developed with Marco(Jerry’s coach) and the connection only a Dutch missionary could share with a Dutch coach who both love soccer! I spent a few late Saturday nights at the Usana amphitheater working the “beer cart” and cashing out our “tip money” when Hugh was my “boss”. Hugh is always willing to work hard and go the extra mile. I love to sit next to him at Jerry’s games and listen to his commentary, mostly about Jerry and all the things that he does right and wrong! I love talking soccer with Hugh. I love the knowledge that we have that families are forever and feel so blessed to have been touched by your sweet family! Know of my love for you ….you will always have a special place in my heart!

    Much love,

    Mark & Allyson Hanks & Aaron Stoddard

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  13. I would just like to thank Hugh and all the support he has had for me escpecially in basketball and other things also. Thanks so much.
    Jonny Hicken

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  14. Dear Dearden Family,
    We just heard that Hugh's health was declining. We are so sorry to hear about this turn of events. Hugh we want you to know how much we love you and your dear family. We will never forget you and your special love for your children and friends, in their behalf and in so many ways. The years you helped on the soccer field and made a difference to my child along with so many others was always noticed. You had a way with the youth and had a great relationship with parents as well. I am grateful for your deadication and love towards everyone having a good experience learning, growing as a team and having a good time. Hugh you are a wonderful man with many talents, you have always been willing to share them as well. Your experience during your path of life has made you valuable where ever you have been. Thanks for being a good friend and mentor to so many. You are a great example of how we should love, laugh, share our talents and testimonies. Diane thanks for the years of sharing your husband to so many others and for being a good helper on the field as well. At this difficult time for your family, please know of our love and concern for you all. Hugh feel of our prayers in your behalf and know that you have touched our lives for the good. We love you all... xoxo Becky Ririe and Family

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  15. We Love The Deardens! We are so blessed to have Libby on our team! We are here for your family and love you guys! Our prayers are with you!

    Kerri and Kyra Radcliffe
    Go Sparta!

    We love you Libby!

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  16. I love the Dearden family more than words! When life gets too hard to stand, kneel. My heart aches for the hard times your family is having. Know that you are so loved and that we are all praying for you.

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  17. Hugh, Diane and Jerry,

    Hugh has always been a fun ref to tease, but we have always enjoyed his honesty and practical assessments of soccer and life--delivered with his dry sense of humor. And always willing to assist.
    What a difficult blow delivered to this quiet giant. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
    Nancy, Jeff and Adam Hughes

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  18. Dear Hugh
    You continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. I wish we were closer, so we could drop by. I miss our frequent talks and sharing a subscription to the Cougar Sports Line. You are a great example to us. Hope you find joy in this day.

    Love, a brother;
    John Jeppson

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  19. Dear Hugh - Thanks for the opportunity to come and visit last week. The outpouring of love, prayers and concerns by so many does not go unnoticed and speaks volumes of the Christ Like attributes and example you have set for us all in your time of trial and testing. I will continue to stand in the Prayer Circle each Wednesday at the Temple in your behalf.

    Love, Tony

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  20. We love you, Hugh. It is humbling to witness you fight the good fight. We pray that the comforter can come to you and your loved ones.

    love,
    Jennifer and Wade Ashworth

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  21. Dearden Family
    Diane, is has been a pleasure knowing you and your amazing family. Always remember you have all your great memories, hold them close to your heart, tap at them when needed. I wish you all the best. God~Bless!

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  22. To the Dearden Family,
    It is with deep sadness that we learned of Hugh's passing. We are so sorry for your loss. Hugh was such a wonderful person in so many ways! We will remember his smiling face as a ref at the soccer games, helping in the neighborhood, and meeting on the street or at the grocery store, always with a friendly smile and hello. We hope you will be comforted by all your wonderful memories and his spirit will continue to be with you and the family. I can only imagine the emotions you must feel and we are so glad that you have the support of so many friends and family to help and provide some sense of comfort. If there is ever anything you need please let us know, anytime.
    Hugh will be missed!
    Kris, Rich, Chase and Sarah Sovereen

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  23. Dear Dearden Family,
    We just recently learned of Hugh's passing and can't even begin to express the sorrow we feel for your loss! Our Families have shared so many wonderful times through all of our years with Soccer. We love you all and sincerely hope you will continue to find comfort in knowing how much Hugh touched so many lives. We will cherish your friendship Always!!
    The Ganung Family♥

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  24. wow. I am so impressed with all of the neat things I have learned about Hugh while reading about him. I am Zach Morgans sister, NAtalie. I have heard so much about your amazing husband and father. May he be the guardian angel you need and the heavenly ref standing on the side to still cheer all the teams on!!! Natalie Lyman

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  25. Jana and Mark PaulApril 9, 2011 at 6:41 PM

    Dear Dearden Family
    We will not be able to travel to SLC for the funeral but we truly wish we could be there for you. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. One of the reasons we are married is due to your encouragement to start dating. Hugh always had such a calm, cool, happy, peaceful demeanor with no malice or pretense in his soul. With Hugh is what you see is what you get. Other than his strange obsession with BYU he was the greatest of men. Hugh was kind, big smile, honest, trustworthy, faithful, a great father and a great husband. We love Hugh and we will miss him.
    Diane you are such a dear friend, we are sorry that you have had to go through this. You are so strong. We know you can get through this with grace, dignity and the help of the Lord.
    We love you.
    Jana & Mark Paul

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  26. Dear Diane and Kids,

    We are so saddened to hear the news of Hugh and wish you the greatest comfort from our Lord and Savior at this time. Even though we haven't kept in touch as much over the years we have fond memories of your family during our time in Boise. Our daughters Adrianne and Dana still remember playing together with Darren and Jerry. Wow, how the years have flown by.

    Hugh was always a lot of fun to be around and his sense of humor kept us laughing. We wish you the best during this difficult time and want to you know you're in our prayers.

    Love, Dan and Andrea Shumway

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  27. From a Dear Friend to a great Man who has moved on the the other side of the Vail...Diane, Jerry and Darren. You might not remember me but your husband and your father touched many lives thru his dedication and love for Soccer and helping others. Today, when I heard the news from a dear friend in Utah (Dave Lipuma) my heart felt heavy and could not stop thinking of the great times I and your father had on the soccer field. I shall miss him dearly and I hope to see him in our fathers kingdom someday...because I know he is there waiting for us.
    Love from: Elvis J. Goes, India.
    USSF A license football coach, because your dad and Dave gave me the chance to be one at COSMOS.

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  28. I was just checking the schedule for summer soccer tournaments and learned about Hugh on the Utah Youth Soccer Website. I have been out of town. I always enjoyed being on the same ref team with Hugh, we would often swich from AR to Center when working multiple games. A few times Hugh disagreed with my calls(ususally in his kids games). We would talk after the game about how each of us saw the play. Hugh had the ability to keep things in perspective. He had an enjoyable easygoing way about him. Hugh was a pleasure to be around. I will miss working with him.

    David Tamowski

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  29. Dear Dianne and family,

    I was checking the SL Trib website this past Sunday morning and ran across the article about Hugh in the "most read" so I thought what the heck and clicked on it. Shocked does not begin to describe how I felt when I realized I knew the people in this article. Hugh coached Tanner his first year of all-stars in the Brighton league. Hugh's knowledge of the game and the way he coached those boys instilled in Tanner a love of the game that continues to this day. For that we are ever appreciative. He remembers Hugh fondly as well as the rest of your family. He remembers you all taking him to a Bee's game and the fun he had with Conner that summer. Our hearts ache for your loss.

    Stephanie and Tanner Kearns

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