Joseph BARANYAI Obituary

BARANYAI, Joseph Tibor. Born 20 September 1938 Died 14 June 2025 Much loved husband of Judith, father of Stephen and Joseph, father in law of Jacenta and grandfather of Sophia, Joseph and Annabel. Joseph was born in Eger, Hungary growing up during the war and under Communist rule and was accepted as a refugee to New Zealand in 1957 following the Hungarian Revolution. By trade he was a motor mechanic but he had a variety of jobs through his working life. On arrival in New Zealand he was initially sent to New Plymouth but within a few years moved to Wellington so he could play for the Hungaria football club as goalie. He moved to Deep Cove in the 60's and after marrying traveled with Judith to Australia and the UK. Returning to Auckland in the 70's now with two young children he worked for the Union Steamship Company, Devonport Naval Base and then ACG at Parnell. His family, friends and football were his life. Although he was grateful for his life in New Zealand his heart remained in Hungary and there were many trips back where some family and many friends still remain. Joseph's health declined in the later years of his life but he remained at home where he died under the care of his family and a team of wonderful carers. Joseph had a truly remarkable life which he lived with optimism, generosity and love. A private service has been held and the family will eventually take his ashes back to the family grave in Eger to be interred with his parents and brother. He will be greatly missed.