Zoltan Alajos Hantos

It is with great sadness that we announce Zoltan’s passing, at home, on March 21, 2022 after a difficult illness.  Zoltan is survived by his loving wife, Jane, their daughter Joanna (Chris) and grandchildren Elizabeth and Jack, plus sister-in-law Judy (Bob). He is also survived by his son Jeff (Bronwen), grandsons Justin (Heather), Zachary and Nigel, and great-grandchildren Brandon, Courtney and Zoe.  He leaves behind his Hungarian family, including sisters Erzi and Magda, plus numerous nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved deeply.  

Zoltan was a big man with a big heart and was dearly loved by family and friends.  Born in Bekescaba, Hungary in 1937, he shared his childhood with eight siblings, all growing up in World War II.  Zoltan later escaped from the communist regime during the Hungarian revolution in 1956.  After a brief time in France, he came to Canada as a refugee at 19 years old, arriving in Saint John on Christmas Eve Day in 1956.  Choosing his new hometown was not difficult, as there were two trains leaving that day- one to Alberta and one to Saskatchewan.  He couldn’t pronounce Saskatchewan, so Edmonton it was.  He never looked back. 

Zoltan’s career in the furniture business began when he worked for Campbell’s Furniture unloading box cars. With the help of his co-workers, he eventually learned English by studying the newspapers that were used to wrap furniture.  He worked his way up the ladder to management and eventually “went on the road” as a manufacturer’s sale representative in the early 70’s.  He loved his job and met many incredible people and customers, some of whom remain friends to this day.  He retired in his 80^th year.

In addition to the people he loved, he also leaves behind the legacy of his beautiful garden.  He will long be remembered for his bright and colorful roses and could often be found tending to his flowers with loving care.  Zoltan enjoyed travelling, especially back home to Hungary where he could immerse himself in the food, culture and people that he loved and never stopped missing.

Those that mattered most to him felt the love and warmth of his affection and he loved to brag about their accomplishments.  He had many friends, family members and dogs waiting to greet him, and we know he is spending his time catching up, bantering, laughing and drinking rum and cokes.  We will forever miss the gentle smile, annoyingly persistent questions and generosity of our Apu, Tati and Zoltan, The Mad Hungarian.

A gathering of friends and family will be held on May 29, 2022 from 12:00-2:30 in the Stewart Room, Northview Golf and Country Club, 6857-168 Street, Surrey, BC. Zoltan loved bright colours, so dress as you please!

For catering purposes, please rsvp to zoltan.celebration@gmail.com

Donations can be made to the BC Cancer Foundation: http://donate.bccancerfoundation.com/goto/zoltan