PAUL PAYER

October 2, 1933 - May 25, 2016

It was with profound sadness that Paul passed away on Wednesday, May 25, 2016 after a long courageous struggle with diabetes and kidney failure. He was a devoted husband to Daria Zalucky whom he met 50 years ago. Both had a lot to celebrate since their marriage was full of love and care.

Paul was born in Vac, Hungary, to parents Ilonna Kosic and Paul Payer who are predeceased together with younger sister, Agi. Paul is survived by older sister, Ica. Paul was a treasured uncle to many nephews and nieces residing in Hungary. Paul's early religious education was through Jesuit priests. At the Sopron University in Hungary, Paul studied Mining Engineering and was in his fourth year when the Hungarian Revolution broke out in 1956. Together with a large group of Sopron students, Paul sailed to Canada in 1957 as refugees and they have been in very close contact throughout the years.

Paul's keen intellect propelled him to obtain his Civil Engineering qualification in Toronto. Paul proudly worked on significant projects throughout the province for the Department of Highways of Ontario, now the Ministry of Transportation and Communications. Paul lived up to his potential in a senior position and after a lengthy career of 35 years he retired. Paul was charming, cerebral, sensible, extremely intelligent and very diplomatic and could connect with anyone. Paul had a terrific sense of humour and was great at one-liners. He was up-to-date with current news as well as history due to his extensive reading. In addition, Paul enjoyed watching sports, travelling to various world locations, spending time with his many friends and of course, regular card playing with Sopron friends. Paul always had a kindly word for everyone and he will be sadly missed but never forgotten. A special thank you is extended to Dr. Sidlofsky, Pauline Reid, Social Services Coordinator and the staff at Vermont Square who were the guardian angels that looked after making Paul comfortable throughout his five-year stay.

A Catholic service will be held on Monday, June 6th at 11:00 a.m. with a reception to follow. The location is Mount Pleasant Cemetery at 375 Mount Pleasant Road in Toronto. Please take the east gate entrance and follow the signs to the Funeral Centre. At Paul's request, cremation will take place later in private with entombment to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Paul may be made to the Toronto General Hospital or to a charity of your choice and would be sincerely appreciated.