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Judith died peacefully at home on her own terms, surrounded by her loving family. She leaves her children, Annemarie (Gerald Sadvari) and Judith (Brooke Johnston). She was very actively involved in helping raise her grandchildren Alexandra Sadvari (Michael Kochan), Eric Sadvari (Kevin Woodward), Alison Sadvari (Linton Taylor), Cameron Johnston (Lisa McCarthy), and Logan Johnston. She was very proud of her six great-grandchildren: William, Jackson, Katherine, Maeve, Mia and Zoe. Judith was predeceased by her husband, Dr. Alexander Bonkalo “Alec” (d. 1988), and her brother, Anthony Hampel.
Judith was born in Budapest, Hungary and educated by the Loretto nuns, followed by the University of Budapest, where she studied English literature and linguistics. Unhappy living through the horrors of both Nazi and Communist regimes, she and Alec left in 1948 for Sweden on his medical fellowship. Their first child was born in Stockholm. Another fellowship followed the next year, this time in Toronto at the Banting and Best Institute. The birth of their second daughter completed their family. Toronto was now their home.
All her life, Judith enjoyed reading about and discussing politics and history. Her love of opera led to both volunteering with the Canadian Opera Women’s Committee, particularly their art auction, as well as front row season’s tickets for over 50 years. She very much enjoyed working with teachers to encourage young students’ understanding of opera. Her appreciation of fine wines led to early membership in the Opimian Society.
Above all, there were many tennis matches and much camaraderie at the Toronto Lawn, North York and Mayfair tennis clubs. She was full of fun and good humour on and off the court. Judith loved a good game of cards, whether bridge for Masters points or gin rummy.
Judith dedicated her life to her family, contributing immensely to their successful careers and happy lives. We will all miss her more than we can say.
2023
Morley Bedford Funeral Services Ltd
Death notice for the town of: Toronto, Province: Ontario
death notice Judith Bonkalo nee Hampel July 10 1927 – January 4 2023
obituaries notice Judith Bonkalo nee Hampel July 10 1927 – January 4 2023
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Judith Bonkalo nee Hampel July 10 1927 – January 4 2023 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
