Laszlo Hetenyi, resident of Thunder Bay, passed away on Thursday, September 7, 2023, with family by his side. He was 88 years old. Born on February 28, 1935, in Hungary, Laszlo fled from Hungary during the Hungarian Revolution and made his way to England to start a new life. The stories he told of his escape would have made a great Hollywood movie, and he recently told me that he often thought about writing a book about his experiences during that time. In 1966, he, his wife (Gina Hetenyi), and their two daughters voyaged across the ocean to start anew in New Brunswick, Canada, where a third daughter was added to the family. In 1976, job opportunities brought him and his family to Thunder Bay, which became their new home. Laszlo loved to travel and did so as often as he could. He certainly was a free spirit. In his younger years, he loved fishing and hunting.
Laszlo is survived by his loving partner, Emma Hegedus; his daughter, Anna Birston (Greg); his daughter, Olga Boisvert (Guy) and his daughter Gabriella Otway (Darcy). Survived also by grandchildren Lia Birston, Davin Boisvert, Carlee Otway and Kyle Otway.
Laszlo is predeceased by his grandson, Corey Birston; Gina Hetenyi; and his brother and parents in Hungary.
Cremation has taken place. As per his wishes, Emma will bring his ashes back to Hungary and there will be no service.
