VILMOS MIHALIK

With profound sadness, we announce the sudden passing of Vilmos Mihalik on February 19, 2025, in Toronto, Canada, at the age of 86. Willy (as everyone called him) was a beloved husband, father, brother, brother-in-law, uncle and friend to many. Predeceased by his parents, Vilmos and Jolan; and his siblings, Marika, Eva and Sandor. Survived by his dear wife of 59 years, Annette (née Baudart); children, Natalie and William; half-siblings, Tom and Anett; sisters-in-law, Irene and Panni; cousin, Jeno; and nephews and nieces in Canada and Hungary. Willy was born in Budapest, Hungary. Even as a young child, Willy flourished in his studies and went on to graduate from one of Hungary's pre-eminent high schools (Fazekas Mihaly Gimnazium). Shortly thereafter, in 1956, Willy was part of a generation of Hungarians to flee Hungary as a consequence of the Hungarian Revolution. Willy initially travelled to Austria, and then to France, where he attended university in Besançon. His journey continued to New Brunswick, Canada, where his uncle, Dr. Joseph Mihalik, worked as a psychiatrist and enrolled Willy in university there. Willy's first job was in Ste-Ad?le, Québec, where he worked in the Laurentians as a sommelier at Alpine Inn. It was here that he met Annette, a French Canadian, on November 23, 1963. With his charming personality and worldly perspective, it didn't take long for him to impress Annette and convince her to move to Ontario with him. They married in 1966 and soon expanded their family with the birth of Natalie and William. Their home was filled with love and laughter. Willy built a life in Toronto, but remained very close to his family in Hungary. He called overseas on a daily basis. For over 30 years, Willy worked as maitre d' of Ed's Warehouse Restaurant in Toronto. His kind and warm personality, great sense of humour and cultured manner made him a beloved friend and employee – not to mention that he could make recommendations in six languages. He loved his work and the deep relationships he made with customers and colleagues, including Mr. Ed Mirvish, Mr. Yale Simpson and Mr. Alex Abonyi. Highly intelligent and well-read, Willy loved books, old movies and classical music. He played the piano and was blessed with a wealth of knowledge on just about any topic (particularly history). His genuine warmth and gift for listening made him not just a friend but a confidante to many. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, compassion, humility and intelligence. Honouring Willy's wishes, no funeral service was held. He will be loved and remembered forever.