In memory of

John Szekely

March 16, 1932 -  November 17, 2021

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John Szekely. He passed away on November 17th, 2021 at Baycrest Hospital. He is predeceased by his wife, Anna Szekely and his daughter Patricia Gerardi Manna. John is survived by his daughter Judy Devai, his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

John Szekely was born on March 16, 1932 in Budapest, Hungary. His life in Hungary was not always easy. He experienced many life-changing moments in German occupied Hungary during WW2. As a young adult, he fled Hungary during the Revolution and found his way to Canada, starting in Quebec and eventually ending up in Toronto. These were memories from his life that he would often recollect with his grandchildren. These were also moments that made him the strong, brave man that he was.

His move to Canada wasn’t an easy one. As an immigrant, he found himself working in a variety of jobs to make ends meet for his young family.
He found himself driving a cab for Royal Taxi which turned into his career for many, many years. He took great pride in his work. He loved meeting new people and chatting with them. He loved driving around the city. Often times, he would drive revered individuals across the border. Those were his fondest memories. John knew how to get to any intersection with his eyes closed. Not only did he find a career he was passionate about but he found a way to provide for his family. He was one of the hardest workers and instilled the value of a dollar into his family.

John also got involved within his building. He was on the Board of Directors for many years. He used to love getting dressed up and going to the meetings and getting to know the residents of the building.

John loved to travel to tropical places with his wife, Anna. Every year they would travel to Florida or Cuba and enjoy a much needed vacation together.

John adored his grandchildren. To them, he was known as Papika or Papa. He loved to take them to McDonalds every Sunday when they were young children. As they grew, those McDonald trips changed to Starbucks dates. Those memories will always remain close to their hearts.

John loved sports; he adored his Toronto Raptors and Blue Jays. He loved watching them play and catching up on all their stats on the apps on his phone. He loved to stay on top of the latest technology.

John was a strong man with great pride. He will be greatly missed by his family. We take comfort in knowing that he is now at peace with his wife, Anna Szekely and with his daughter, Patricia Gerardi Manna.

Rest In Peace, Papika. We love you and we miss you, dearly.

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