George Meszaros

With great sadness the Meszaros family announce that George passed away peacefully at Hospice House in Kelowna on September 22nd, 2013 after a relatively short battle with liver cancer. He is survived by his wife Shirley, sons Gerrard and Christopher and daughter Susan. He leaves 2 grandchildren – granddaughter Kingsley and grandson Kalen. He was predeceased by his parents, brother Gabor and first wife Kornelia. He leaves relatives, many friends & colleagues. He was described as being a truly “Renaissance” man. His wide range of interests and abilities gave him much pleasure over the years. His sporting interests included bike riding, skiing (helicopter and Nordic), sailing, horseback riding and hiking. He played the cello until recent years when he sadly had to sell his beloved cello (circa 1743). His love of reading (in French, also) and classical music was a lifelong passion. He travelled the world with his wife especially in his later years. He was interested in astronomy and enjoyed his sessions with The Society of Learning in Retirement (S.L.R.). He was computer literate and was daily at the computer checking the weather and news. He was a gourmet cook and made “Heavenly” wines (from scratch) according to his friends – and enjoyed especially by his sister-in-law, Bev. He also ran & operated a full scale sheep farm in Manitoba during his working years there. Lamb dishes featured highly at the Meszaros residence. Academically he accomplished much during his lifetime. He graduated from medical school in 1952 in Budapest, Hungary. He became a certified specialist in surgery in Hungary before he fled Hungary during the Hungarian Revolution in 1956. In England he obtained his fellowship with the Royal College of Surgeons (Edinburgh and England - 1962/68 respectively). He obtained his fellowship in Orthopedic Rehab at Rancho Los Amigos Hospital in California. From 1964-1971 he became a Fellow of the College of Surgeons (Canada) and obtained a California License and was certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery. He became an associate Professor, Orthopedics, University of Manitoba. His major professional interest was spinal surgery and joint replacement. He had extensive experience in providing independent medico/legal assessments & reports. He moved to the Okanagan in 1996 and truly loved the ambience the valley provided. He took pride in his home & garden. The fruit trees provided much interest & pleasure (even though Shirley got “tired” of making jam). For George life was about living it to the fullest and exploring every crevice, making plans and going about doing them. During the last 9 months, life was tough on him – but he faced and dealt with his fate with grace and dignity. He will be sorely missed but not forgotten. At his request cremation has taken place. A celebration of his life will take place at a later date – one in the Valley and another in Winnipeg, Manitoba (to be announced). A special thanks goes out to all those who assisted George in spending some time at home & to the community & palliative care nurses, doctors and staff of Hospice House – Kelowna. In lieu of flowers donations to the Canadian Cancer Society in his memory would be appreciated. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.mem.com, clicking on stories and typing in George Meszaros. Arrangements entrusted to First Memorial Funeral Services, Kelowna ph: 250-762-2299.