Ilie Karolyi

Ilie Karolyi passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at the age of 54, surrounded by the family he devoted his life to.

Ilie was born in Timișoara, Romania. At the age of 20, he married his high school sweetheart, Carmen Ildiko Kos and moved to Hungary, working as a butcher. Ilie dreamed of change and starting a new life in a new country, at the young age of 22, Ilie decided to move to Canada and start a family with his new bride.

Ilie was known as a hard worker and pursued a career in construction. He built a company from the ground up and he is remembered as a very caring and kind boss. Amongst many other attributes, Ilie was also a very good friend, he could make anyone feel welcomed and understood. His many stories were a comfort to us all.

At the age of 24, Ilie and Carmen welcomed their first daughter Anita Gherghescu, and the following year their second daughter Diana Racovita. Ilie always dreamt of a big family. At the age of 29, Ilie welcomed his third daughter Emily Karolyi. He insisted on having a fourth child so that Emily could have a friend too and got his wish in 2001, when he welcomed his fourth baby girl Michele Karolyi. Ilie Karolyi was the proudest father of four beautiful daughters, he mentioned them whenever he got the chance. Ilie’s family expanded quickly once his girls married and began having children of their own. Ilie welcomed his first grandchild Sophie Racovita in 2017, shortly after Mila Gherghescu, Finnick Racovita, and Tristan Gherghescu followed. Oscar Racovita is the youngest grandchild to Ilie Karolyi. Ilie loved his grandchildren as much as he loved and cherished all four of his sons-in-law, Gigi, Bogdan, Pierre and Stuart.

Ilie’s last request was to be surrounded by the beautiful large family he and Carmen created together and to be able to share beautiful memories and reminisce on his wonderfully fulfilled life.

A Funeral Service will be held at Evan J Strong Funeral Services North (3625 12 Street NE) on Thursday, May 30, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.

A Fallen Limb

A limb has fallen from the family tree.
I keep hearing a voice that says, grieve not for me.
Remember the best times, the laughter, the song.
The good life I lived while I was strong.
Continue my heritage, I’m counting on you.
Keep smiling and surely the sun will shine through.
My mind is at ease, my soul is at rest.
Remembering all, how I truly was blessed.
Continue traditions, no matter how small.
Go on with your life, don’t worry about falls.
I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin.
Until the day comes we’re together again.
– Author Unknown

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