05/26/2026
Michele McHugh-
Our town has lost a wonderful person. Michele was a business owner, loving wife, devoted mother/grandmother (with another on the way!) and public servant. She was a close friend and I cannot begin to thank both Jack and Michele for all they have done for me over my political career. This one really hurts.
Michele was never shy to lend a helping hand. As an entrepreneur, she started, owned and operated Hawk Ridge Winery. Today, it is the top destination winery in the State. As a wife, she devoted herself to her loving husband, Dr. Jack Mchugh. I send my deepest condolences to him. As a mom to two beautiful children and grandmother, she exemplified what it was to be a role model. She was so proud of her children .
About a year ago, I picked up the phone and called Michele and asked her to get involved. I told her she would make an excellent council woman and boy was I right. In her short time serving our town, she quickly became a leader and great communicator to the public. I’ll never regret asking her to run.
This past week, Michele and I spoke about the challenges our town faced. We attended a memorial service for the late John Gavallas. At that service, she told me she could only hope to accomplish half of what John did. Little did I know, that would be the final time I would see her.
Our hearts are broken for Michele and her family. As I vowed to Jack- may her memory be eternal and rest assured we will NEVER forget her. God Bless you my friend. Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord.
