Thomas Horvath

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas (Tom) Horvath. Tom passed peacefully, with family by his side, on October 6, 2024. Tom was born in Sentlorinc, Hungary on November 7, 1938, and was 85 years old.

Tom loved his family more than anything. Survived by his wife Florence Kelly and his three sons, Thomas A Horvath, Jeffrey Horvath, and Richard Horvath, Tom would only wish wellness and happiness for them and their families. Tom welcomed into the family his two daughters-in-law, Caroline Horvath, and Genvieve Soler, and cared deeply for them. Tom had four grandchildren, Luke Horvath, Anna Horvath, Naashkii Soler, and Zaagaate Soler, and he took pride in them, loved them with all his heart, and found joy in all their success and accomplishments. Tom rarely missed a hockey game, dance recital or piano concert if one of his grandkids was involved. Once his first grandchild was born, he became affectionately known as “Papa” to everyone in the family.

Tom spoke little of himself. Quiet and humble, he took no pride in compliment or excess flattery.  Always accommodating, he was a man of modest words. He was a true provider, consistently ensuring his family was cared for with love, a home, and essential needs. Tom always gave precedence to the care of his family above all else. 

After escaping the Hungarian Revolution, Tom arrived in Canada by ship on December 14, 1956, landing in St. John, New Brunswick, aboard the Empress of Britain. A refugee of war, he was only 18 years old when he came to Canada. He traveled Eastern Canada, making friends, learning to speak English and working a variety of odd jobs, including at a gold mine, a sawmill, and a mushroom farm. He eventually settled in Toronto, Ontario, obtaining his technical education and starting his professional career as a computer programmer for Shell Canada. It was in Toronto where he met is wife and loving partner, Florence.

After having three sons in Toronto, Tom moved his family to Calgary, Alberta, with his employment in 1984.  It was here that he would spend the remainder of his life.

Growing up an orphan without parents, Tom was grateful to be welcomed and accepted into the care of Florence’s family. He considered Florence’s parents, Alexander and Laura Kelly as his own. He loved and cared deeply for all of Florence’s extended family as well.

Tom enjoyed playing chess, bingo and fixing things around the house. He had a talent for understanding how things worked and could fix just about anything. He also enjoyed having in-depth political and philosophical conversations with his boys.  A keen observer of current issues and daily events, he kept close tabs on the news and the affairs of the world.

A special man, resilient, strong, loving and dependable, with a big heart and always there for his family, Tom will be missed deeply.

To celebrate Tom’s incredible life, the family will hold a Graveside Gathering at Eden Brook Memorial Gardens at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.