July 6, 1934 - January 16, 2021
George (György) was born in Budapest, Hungary to Béla and Vilma Reichenbacher on July 6th, 1934. As a young man he enrolled at the University of Budapest to become an Electronics Engineer.
In 1956, he immigrated to Canada and began a new life learning English and finding work, making friends and exploring Eastern Canada and the US. George then travelled west to Alberta looking for greater job opportunities, eventually making his way to Olds, where he worked for Birds Electronics for over 30 years. As he was working, he attended NAIT and SAIT where he completed his Radio/ Television Technician Certification in 1969.
George had a passion for music, including big band and jazz. In his younger years he loved to dance, from the jive to polkas, and was quite popular on the dance floor. While in Olds, he met the love of his life, Juanita Mechefske; they married in 1970 and raised four sons. George enjoyed camping out at Pine Lake with his family, where he spent more time after retiring in 1996. He was especially proud of his heritage, and enjoyed treating friends and fellow campers to his favorite dishes and the traditional cuisine of Hungary.
In the summer of 2003, George became a Canadian citizen then returned to his homeland to visit his family and friends. He had a keen memory and loved history, geography, and combing through encyclopedias. George had a special talent for creation. He was fond of woodworking, and assembling radios, stereos, and amplifiers from electronic components and tinkering with all sorts of items; often making something seemingly out of nothing.
George passed away at the age of 86 surrounded by loving family on January 16, 2021 at Olds Hospital. George is survived by his wife of 50 years, Juanita, his children James (Ali) of Olds, Robert (Barbie) of Edson, Edward of Olds and Steven (Makyee) of Calgary. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Torry, Jordan, Joshua, Olivia, Ty and Drake; great grandchildren, Anderson, Jamie and Matthew. His sister Betti Németh and her family mourns his loss in Budapest. He was also survived by brothers-in-law Les, Carl (Laurie), Harold (Betty), Bernard (Jackie) and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents Béla and Vilma, his sister Éva, his brother Róbert, brother-in-law Jenő, sister-in-law Jeannie and sweet granddaughter Shandy, who were waiting to greet him at Heaven’s Gate.
A private family service will take place at a later date.
West View Funeral Services Entrusted with Arrangements Proven, dedicated service. 403 556 6576/ 403 443 5111
