Hugh Ritchie

Limebrook

Hugh Ritchie Limebrook lived a life rich in friendships, adventure, and laughter. Whether paddling into the surf, making music with friends, or telling one of his trademark stories, Hughie had a way of bringing people together. He passed away suddenly on April 29, 2025, at his home in Brookings, Oregon, along the coast where he had lived in recent years. He was 65.

Born November 16, 1959, in Santa Monica, California, Hughie was the fifth of six children of Mary Emerson and William Limebrook. He grew up on Beach Road in Capistrano Beach — a pocket of paradise that shaped his love for the ocean and the tight-knit community around it. He graduated from San Clemente High School in 1978, where his easy charm, competitive spirit, and sense of humor earned him lasting friendships.

Surfing became his passion early in life, and he spent decades chasing waves up and down the California coast and across the globe, from the North Shore's Pipeline to the famed breaks of Bali. Alongside his love of the ocean, Hughie found joy in music. He played guitar with the same energy he brought to surfing, performing with a band of lifelong friends whose gatherings were as much about camaraderie as the songs themselves.

Beyond the surfboard, Hughie was beloved by his family and a wide circle of friends. He is survived by his daughter, Brianna Crawford (Charles), and grandchildren Benjamin and Hailey; siblings, Mary Frances Limebrook Burnham, Dave (Laurie), Jonathan (Tina), Bill (Lauren St. Vincent), and Phoebe Limebrook (Frank Acevedo); nine nieces and nephews; and his girlfriend, Kim Sweeney. He was predeceased by his parents and leaves behind many dear friends who will carry his memory in their hearts.

A memorial and paddleout to celebrate Hughie's life will be held Thursday, October 2, from 3–8 p.m. at the Shorecliffs Beach Club at Poche Beach in San Clemente, beside the waves that always felt like home. In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Hughie's memory to consider a donation to Surfers Healing.