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Bela Karolyi
1942 - 2024
Bela Karolyi
1942 - 2024
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1942
DIED
2024
Bela Karolyi Obituary
Bela Karolyi was a gymnastics coach whose sometimes-controversial methods helped transform U.S. gymnastics and bring home gold medals, techniques that also stirred up criticism for alleged abuse.
We invite you to share condolences for Bela Karolyi in our Guest Book.
Read the full obituary in Legacy's headline news section.
(Photo: Al Bello/Allsport)
7 Entries
Lynne
June 20, 2025
Growing up I was lucky to live down the street from his gym in spring. It was an honor and privilege to even get to train there. I didn't get the honor of being coached by him or Marta however just being able to attend classes in their gym was awsome enough. He was a very strong minded and strong hearted man. I looked up to him he was quite simply the best! I dont listen to the rumors or trash. I just new he was the best and a gentle and yet strong hearted giant. To this day I will always have respect for Bela. Man of grit, hard work and worth of respect. Miss you dearly Mr. Karolyi May you rest in God's Heavenly arms in peaceful harmony. You brought home another gold.
Jack Jensen MD
December 8, 2024
May Bella´s heart rest in a well deserved peace !
Jack Jensen MD
December 7, 2024
Condolences to Marta and Andrea. I was honored to know coach. My heart rest in a well deserved peace !
Mr. Jr
November 30, 2024
My condolences.
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Davis Family
November 28, 2024
We send our heartfelt condolences and sympathy to the family of Bela Karolyi. May your treasured good memories provide comfort for you always. May prayers strengthen you and God´s loyal love always comfort and sustain you always. Psalm 23
RB
November 19, 2024
An amazing gymnastic coach, he coached some of the best, leading many to Olympic success. Condolences to the Karolyi family, May God be with you in your time of loss.
Sheylyn Jaymes
November 18, 2024
As a young athlete, myself, I grew up watching the Karolyis coaching the gymnasts. Bela was tough on the girls but gymnastics is a maxi disciplined sport and one needs to be strong, thick skinned, skilled and resilient to participate and make it. He was a very disciplined person who had been through a lot to just survive in his country and knew what it took to become successful. His temperment which is not uncommon for where he was from was not for sissies but he taught the girls to be able to handle the real world through their training. Bela was simply who he was and he truly did care about his gymnasts. Winning is like a business, to be successful one must work long and hard and be diligent.
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