Dateline Mussoorie: The small community of Mussoorie lost one of it own last evening as Author Hugh Gantzer breathed his last in Mussoorie, aged 94.
A Commander in the navy, in retirement, the veteran naval officer turned a pioneer of travel writer with his wife Colleen and together they meticulously chronicled travel writing over a span of more than five decades.
The dedication of Hugh and Colleen to document India’s diverse heritage and hidden gems has been reflected in their 30-plus books, thousands of articles, and 52 documentaries broadcast on Doordarshan.
On his passing away historian Ganesh Saili recalled, “there is a sense of immense loss of another illustrious writer who called Mussoorie ‘home.’ We used to speak often over the phone keeping each other updated about what was happening in town.’ Further adding, ‘Mussoorie is poorer at the loss of the Gantzer family who were active in social literary activities.’
While Colleen Gantzer, passed away at the age of 90 on 6th November, 2024, the duo were recognised for their contribution to travel journalism with Padma Shri last Republic Day which was received by Hugh Gantzer at their family home Ock Brook, Mussoorie.
The Gantzers had been a part of our childhood. Sending treats over Diwali and Christmas was a tradition that was hardly ever missed, this year too uncle Hugh kept the Christmas tradition alive of sending over a Christmas cake while we sent out Diwali goodies as he had a sweet-tooth and loved to dig into our sweets.
I had last spoken to him last Monday making plans to meet up and bring along some sweets and savouries. It was always a delight speaking to him. He would be in good spirits and always ask about folks, my daughter (whom he met when she was born) and our ‘handsome hound Damru!’
Though Loss is irreparable but this journey too is inevitable and I shall miss our frequent calls, uncle. Rest in Peace!
The burial will take place on the family plot on the Camel’s Back cemetery tomorrow morning.
