Sandor Koroshegyi

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Sandor Koroshegyi. After a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s disease, Sandor passed away in the peace of his own home, surrounded by family, at the age of 89.

Sandor was born in Pécs, Hungary, to István and Maria Koroshegyi during difficult times, but which he remembered with pride as the place he shared his childhood with brothers, István and János, and beloved sister, Marika. He was a gymnast, boxer, and swimmer in his youth, which paved the way for a lifetime of physical endeavor.

Sandor fled Budapest in 1956, leaving his family and his hopes of becoming an architect behind, and made his way first to the UK and then to Toronto, where he worked briefly as a lifeguard with the Harbour Police. It was at this time that he met Elizabeth at a Hungarian sports ball at Casa Loma. They were married soon after, marking the beginning of a union that would last for 64 years.

Sandor and Elizabeth worked hard to make a home in Don Mills, where they raised their three children. Sandor built a career at Eaton’s selling oriental carpets at a time when customer service often included visiting homes to find the perfect match. His many hobbies included woodwork, watercolor painting, camping, and canoeing. He embraced Canada’s wildlife and instilled a love of nature in all his children, taking lengthy summer camping trips to reach parks as far as James Bay or the Maritimes. His favourite place, and the source of many family memories, was Algonquin Park, which he continued to visit into his 80’s.

Sandor supported his friends, family, and community without fail. He rarely offered advice but was always able to provide a “dad joke” to suit the moment, or a reach with “a penny for your thoughts?” Quick to offer a helping hand, Sandor could be counted on for home repairs, dog walks with furry family members, or last-minute childcare. He delighted in his grandchildren, who were always happy to spend time with their “nagypapa” at the pool or in a park. His creativity, playful nature and jovial outlook cemented the bonds they shared throughout his life.

Sandor leaves behind his loving wife, Elizabeth, children Christine (John Morrison), Suzanne (Stephen Thurley), and Arnold (Lara Fitzgerald), grandchildren (Nathan, Eva, Lara, Claudine, Alexander, Ella, Thomas, Jenna, and Tara), the Bauers and extended family. He will be remembered for his gentle manner, generosity, selflessness, and optimism. He will be greatly missed by all.

We are forever grateful to the nurses, personal support workers and doctors who often went above and beyond to offer the care and comfort which allowed Sandor his final years at home.

A private family celebration of life will take place at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Sandor’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada or a charity of your choice.