Tibor "Ted" Kiss

Tibor (Ted) Kiss died on Saturday, July 5th, 2025, in the garden of his home in Saskatoon. He was holding the hand of his wife of 57 years, Faye (Weiler), and also accompanied by his brother-in-law Rob Weiler, and two daughters, Michele and Paula Kiss. He was completely at peace.

Tibor was born on June 25, 1934 in Vencsellő, Hungary to Zoltan and Erzsebet Kiss. It was a hard time to be a kid. The family survived being bombed out three times during the second world war, and despite subsequent hard years under Russian occupation, Tibor grew up and became a national track and field athlete. His racing prize money, extra rations and travel privileges helped the family survive. The Hungarians revolted in 1956 and, just a few days before Russia regained complete control, Tibor and his family made their harrowing escape, becoming refugees in Austria.

It was Tibor's dream to join the Australian Track and compete in the Olympics, but Canada was where his mother's family had emigrated decades before, so moving to Canada was the quickest way. Always the responsible one, Ontario was the first stop, but being the last in a massive wave of refugees, they were not always welcomed. Better opportunities in Saskatchewan drew the family west with fresh determination. They settled in Beechy and worked a myriad of jobs before Ted began his career with the Credit Union. A new branch manager position in Paradise Hill offered incentive to start all over, yet again.

Ted arrived and accepted room and board with Margaret and Magnus Weiler, becoming an instant big brother to their youngest son, Rob. By the time their daughter, Faye, returned from University, Rob determined that the best way to keep Ted around was to ensure they married. Fortunately, Faye agreed without much persuasion. Ted stood out with his accent, manners, affectionate and respectful nature, and incredible resourcefulness. Faye married Ted in June of 1968, and she never regretted her choice. They raised two daughters (Michele and Paula) on their farm just a few miles from Faye's parents. Ted's parents soon joined to help, and their home became bilingual and bicultural as well as multigenerational.

After Michele and Paula left for university and life abroad, Faye and Ted moved to Saskatoon to enjoy what the city would offer, including proximity to Faye's brother, pools, art galleries, libraries, close neighbours, new opportunities and cultures. After almost two decades in Saskatoon, they set their sights on the mild winters of Parksville, BC where they could stroll to the forests and ocean every day and enjoy their last ten years together in comfort.

Ted always loved to walk, he loved to pay attention, to build and create, and was a perpetual problem-solver. He could fix anything and would invent things to do it if necessary. Ted always offered a warm hug or handshake, and always had time to talk, watch nature and look after the little things. His care, respect and attention for himself and others was unusual in a world of business and distraction. He appreciated the simple things- good food, good company, a walk outside. The latest discoveries or oldest philosophies always interested him deeply. He was a man of intellect and affection, curiosity and reflection. Indeed, his last words were "it's all so beautiful". We deeply appreciate what he brought to the world and we will miss him.

If you wish to make a donation in his remembrance, please do so to a public library, art gallery, or walking trail of your choice.