Obituary
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Ilona “Helen” Csák on Wednesday, November 24, 2021, at the age of 83. Her infectious smile, generosity, and natural curiosity will be greatly missed. Ilona will be lovingly remembered by her children, son Attila Csák (wife Barbara); her daughter Zsuzsanna (husband Attila Draskóczy); and granddaughters Kristina (fiancé Brian Hamilton) and Kathleen; brother Béla Kiss (wife Gizella); nephew Robert; niece Rebecca (husband Adam and son John); niece Hajnalka Ramsay (husband Bruce, children Virginia and William); special friend Joe and many other extended family in Hungary, Toronto, and USA.
Ilona was born in Somolóvásárhely, Hungary on August 3, 1938, the fifth child of ten siblings. In 1956, at the age of 18, she fled her homeland during the Hungarian Revolution, leaving behind her parents Kiss Béla and Jagasits Julianna, as well as nine brothers and sisters. On this courageous journey, she met the love of her life, Attila Csák, married in 1957, and together they began a new life in Calgary, Canada.
Ilona was a much-loved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, living an active life doing all the things she loved, whether it was tending to her garden, dancing at the monthly dinners at the Hungarian Culture Centre, or going on 10 km walks every day in her favorite yellow coat. She never forgot where she came from, maintaining and passing down her Hungarian culture through language, traditions, and food, leaving us with cryptic recipes to decipher. Her favorite room in the house was the kitchen; cooking and baking, canning, and preserving Hungarian delicacies for family and friends all while being a fantastic hostess. She always made sure no one left hungry. Most importantly, Ilona was the happiest when the family was together, laughing, telling stories, and reminiscing.
Ilona was predeceased by her husband Attila Csák of 48 years; as well as her parents; sisters Erzsi, Jutka, Agi; and brothers Pityu and Laci.
Many thanks to those who cared for Mom during her illness at Agecare Walden and Revera McKenzie Towne.
At Ilona’s request, a private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Diabetes Canada or Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ilona Helen (Kiss) Csák, please visit our floral store.
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Ilona Helen Kiss Csák August 3 1938 November 24 2021 (age 83)..
Décès pour la Ville: Calgary, Province: Alberta