Pastor Emeritus of St. Vincent de Paul Parish 

Rev. Robert S. “Father Bob” Hughson, age 73, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2026, under the devoted care of Hospice of Orleans, surrounded by his beloved family. Born in Albion, NY, he was the loving son of Alice (Sikorski) and the late Robert Hughson; cherished brother of David (Robin) and Chris (Bridget); and a dear uncle to Matthew, Meghan, Krystle, and Kevin. He is also survived by several great-nieces, great-nephews, countless friends and colleagues.

Father Bob’s calling to serve began early, leading him to graduate from Wadhams Hall Seminary College in Ogdensburg, NY and Christ the King Seminary in East Aurora, NY He was ordained a Catholic Priest on October 19, 1979, a moment that marked the beginning of nearly four decades of dedication to ministry, education and community.

He began his ministry as a Deacon at St. Edmund’s Parish in Tonawanda, NY, later serving as Parochial Vicar in Batavia, NY, and several other parishes before being assigned to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Niagara Falls in 1986. From 1992 to 1998, he joined the faculty at Niagara Catholic High School, where he served as a Scripture teacher, Admissions Director, and Campus Minister, while continuing his weekend ministry at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel.

In 1998, Father Bob was named Pastor of St. Charles Borromeo Church in Niagara Falls and in 2001 became Pastor of Prince of Peace Church and School. His natural leadership and steady presence made him a pillar of the Niagara Falls community. In 2006, he was appointed Vicar Forane (Bishop's Representative) for Western Niagara County.

When Prince of Peace merged with St. Leo’s Parish to form St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Father Bob continued as Pastor, guiding the community through transition with optimism. He also served as the Canonical Administrator of the newly formed Catholic Academy of Niagara Falls, helping ensure the future of Catholic education in the region.

Father Bob’s service extended far beyond parish walls. He was a longtime member of the Board of Trustees for Niagara Catholic, a 1995 graduate of Leadership Niagara, Faithful Friar of Knights of Columbus #247, and past board president of the Health Association of Niagara County (HANCI). He contributed to numerous diocesan committees, including the Priests Council and the Department of Catholic Education’s Strategic Plan Oversight Committee.

His dedication was recognized through many awards, including CYO Youth Moderator of the Year (1991), the Bob Laurie Award (1995), Religious Educator of the Year (1996), Niagara Catholic’s Man of the Year (1997), the Niagara Falls Chamber of Commerce Community Leader Award (2001), the United Way’s VIVA Award (2001) and the Niagara Gazette’s Unsung Heroes Award (2007).

Beyond titles and accomplishments, Father Bob will be remembered for his great sense of humor, his easygoing nature, and his profound love for people. He had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and valued. His presence brought comfort, his laughter brought joy, and his faith brought hope.

Upon turning 70, Father Bob retired on June 1, 2023, as part of the Diocesan Road to Renewal plan. Retirement allowed him cherished time with family and friends, though he remained a beloved figure in the community he served so faithfully.

Father Bob’s legacy is woven into the fabric of Niagara Falls, its parishes, its schools, and its people. His commitment to strengthening Catholic education, nurturing faith, and building community will never be forgotten. His passing is a tremendous loss, but his spirit will continue to guide all who were blessed to know him.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 11 from 2 - 6 PM at St. Vincent de Paul Parish at Prince of Peace Church, 1055 N. Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14304, where Father Bob's Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, September 12 at 9:30 AM with Bishop Michael W. Fisher officiating. Interment will be held privately at St. Joseph's Cemetery in Albion, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Hospice of Orleans at hospiceoforleans.com or Catholic Academy of Niagara Falls at catholicacademyofniagarafalls.com - Arrangements by M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, Niagara Falls, NY. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.