In memory of Stu Hughes

ROCHESTER, N.Y. - Stuart Hughes, a 47-year employee of RIT, succumbed to his battle with cancer on July 15, surrounded by family and friends. He was 64.

Mr. Hughes, affectionately known as Stu, was a Henrietta native who began working on the university grounds crew at the age of 18. After serving 20 years tending to RIT's grounds, he transitioned to become the Ice Operations Manager of Frank Ritter Arena and the newer Gene Polisseni Center when it opened in 2014.

He was a fan favorite of RIT Tiger hockey fans for nearly three decades. Fans would chant "Stu!" while he maneuvered donuts in the large Zamboni after every Tiger playoff series victory.

"Stu was a fixture of our hockey community and helped make an ice rink feel like a second home for players and fans alike," said Executive Director of Athletics Jackie Nicholson. "You couldn't help but feel a sense of pride when you set foot in the rink and saw the flawless sheet of ice, he always had ready, just waiting to be skated on. Game nights won't be the same without Stu."

Mr. Hughes drove the Zamboni one final time this past season for "Support Stu Night" as he was battling cancer. Fittingly, his last official game was in March 2024, when the men's hockey team won the Atlantic Hockey Championship.

"Stu was a great friend and co-worker from the very first day I started at RIT," said former RIT Men's Hockey Coach Wayne Wilson, who recently retired following 26 years leading the program. "You'd be hard pressed to find someone more meticulous about his job or take more pride in having the best ice in college hockey than Stu. There also are not many Zamboni drivers who fans know by name, but he was a big part of our program that will be missed."

Mr. Hughes is predeceased by his mother, father, and sister, Deborah. He is survived by his by his daughter, Amanda; brother, Eric; and sisters, Sandra, Nancy, Marilyn, and Victoria.

Public calling hours will be from 3 to 7 p.m., Thursday, July 24 at the Miller Funeral Home, 3325 Winton Road South, Henrietta. The RIT flag will be lowered in his memory and honor on July 24.