Joseph Gabor Paraszkay

August 17, 1940 - September 2, 2024

Joseph Gabor Paraszkay, born Gabor Erno Paraszkay, entered this world on August 17, 1940, in Cegled, Hungary. He was the youngest of three children born to Rosa Szabadfi Paraszkay and Erno Paraszkay. The family later moved to Aszod, where Joseph spent his early years.

At the age of 16, Joseph courageously escaped from Hungary in December 1956, embarking on a journey that would shape the rest of his life. He arrived in California and subsequently moved to Florida before settling in New Jersey. In 1958, Joseph enlisted in the United States Navy, serving honorably for four years before returning to New Jersey. In 1962, he made his way back to California, where his life would take a significant turn.

In California, Joseph reconnected with the Szasz family, whom his family had known in Hungary. It was through this connection that he met his future wife, Irene Szasz. Joseph and Irene married on March 28, 1964, beginning a loving partnership that would span six decades, celebrating their 60th anniversary in March 2024.

Joseph and Irene were blessed with two beautiful children: Susie, born on July 30, 1965, and Daniel, born on July 27, 1966. The family expanded further with the arrival of a cherished grandchild, Ava, on July 16, 2001.

In 1976, Joseph recommitted himself to military service, re-enlisting in the Navy. He served with distinction on aircraft carriers, destroyers and tenders. In his entire naval career served with distinction in several operations including the Cuban Missile Crisis and the 1st Gulf War 1990 to 1991, until his retirement in 1992. Following his retirement, Joseph and Irene returned to Hungary, spending 14 years there with Joseph's mother and sister. During this time, in 1998, Joseph was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

Despite the challenges posed by his health, Joseph and Irene maintained strong ties with their family in California, returning yearly for holiday celebrations. In 2005, they relocated to Desert Hot Springs, California, where they resided until 2021. To be closer to the VA hospital in Loma Linda, they moved once more in 2021. Throughout Joseph's 26-year battle with Parkinson's, Irene was not only his devoted wife but also his dedicated caregiver.

Joseph was renowned for his love of family, his great sense of humor, and his remarkable strength of character. No matter his personal struggles, he always found a way to bring a smile to the faces of those around him.

On September 2, 2024, at 10:50 PM, Joseph peacefully passed away at home, surrounded by his loving family. He leaves behind a legacy of love, courage, and resilience that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Joseph will be forever loved and deeply missed. We take solace in knowing we will see him again.

We love you, Gabor, Dad(Apu) and Nagypapa.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, an organization close to Joseph's heart.

https://dogood.t2t.org/IMOJosephGaborParaszkay