Dr. Zoltan de Haydu

Aptos, California has lost one of its great citizens. On February 17, 2008 at 9:01 pm. Dr. Zoltan de Haydu passed away with his family by his side after enduring years of pain and suffering. He was born in Budapest, Hungary on September 27, 1917. He graduated from the University of Hungary with multiple Doctorates in International Law and Economics, and served his country in WWII. He was on the National Hungarian Olympic Team in 1936 in Berlin and survived the Terror House in Budapest. He escaped Budapest with his first wife and his son and began a new life in Venezuela. There he opened the first supermarket, built highways, hotels and raced Formula One cars. In 1960 he moved and settled in the United States. He met his second wife Irene in Europe in 1961 and the following year he became Man of the Year for Pacific Mutual Life. Later he and Irene opened a small Brokerage firm in San Jose. He also was involved in many other business ventures in the US, including Real Estate, Land Development, Insurance, and Finance. His goal was not only to succeed in life, but to also help others succeed. He influenced and helped many people throughout his life. More importantly, he led by example always showing true courage and strength. He was an active member of his community both politically and socially. He made many contributions to the Santa Cruz Art Museum, Santa Cruz Symphony, Mended Hearts, and other great charities. He showed his family and friends what true relationships are about. He set the standard of what love is defined by, and for that we thank him.

He is survived by his loyal and loving wife of 47 years, Irene de Haydu of Aptos, California. He leaves four sons, Zoltan de Haydu Jr and wife Marina, Ricardo Ramirez and wife Sue, Michael de Haydu, and Alexander de Haydu and wife Bronlyn. He was also blessed with six grandchildren, Christopher, Gregory, Bryce, Michael, Ryann, and Joshua.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that a donation be made to Mended Hearts Chapter #155, P.O.B. 2994, Santa Cruz,, CA 95063-29994 or Hospice of Santa Cruz 940 Disc Drive, Scotts Valley, CA 95066. We are blessed that both of these great organizations were part of his life.

Dad may you rest in peace. We thank you for giving us the strength, wisdom, and courage to always achieve the best. Your family and friends will miss you. May your spirit, guidance, and courage live on in those who had the great fortune of knowing you.

Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, March 8th at 10:00 am at the Resurrection Catholic Church, 7600 Soquel Drive, Aptos. A reception will follow at the Parish Hall.