Imre was reunited with his beloved Rose on March 5, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family and friends. He is survived by his children, Peter and Valerie; son-in-law Scott; grandchildren Nick and Ava; and extended family here and in Hungary.
Known by all who crossed his path as one of a kind, Imre possessed a charm, stubbornness, resilience, and a penchant for being annoyingly correct. He approached life with curiosity and determination, overcoming numerous hardships, from his birth in Hungary and surviving World War II in his occupied homeland to his eventual escape from Hungary. Imre left the refugee camp on Christmas Day to later arrive at Ellis Island. Deciding that New York City was not theplace for him, he picked the location that was farthest away and moved to Seattle to begin thesecond chapter of his life.
It was at Seattle’s Ridge Roller Skating Rink where Imre first laid eyes on Rose. After persistent attempts to win her over, including serenading her over the phone by playing records on his prized stereo, she finally agreed to a date. They were married shortly thereafter in 1963. Imre worked as a marine mechanic in Seattle and Alaska, passionately sharing his expertise in diesel engines and generators with all who would listen. He could always be counted on for a helping hand.
For the third chapter, Imre and Rose moved to Port Townsend in 1993. From there they explored 40 states together, discovering wonders like the Blarney Stone in Arkansas and enjoying tranquil mornings at El Tovar in Grand Canyon National Park. They cherished their family and grandchildren and enjoyed almost 57 years of marriage. After Rose’s passing in 2020, Imre faithfully visited her each day in “Silent City” (Laurel Grove Cemetery), seeking her “halo,” counting the deer and bears, and saying hello to the two Hungarians, before making his rounds at the Port Townsend Boat Haven to check on the boats and their progress. Imre proudly wore his baseball hat, which said “It took me 91 years to look this good!”
Imre touched many lives, leaving an oversize hole in our hearts. His children express deep gratitude to those who cared for him in his final years, enabling him to remain at home, continue his daily visits to Rose, and enjoy his nightly Kit Kats. A service will be held on Saturday, March 23 at 12 noon at Laurel Grove Cemetery on Discovery Road, followed by a celebration at his home. For more information, please contact roseh1000@gmail.com.
Friends and family may share memories of Imre and sign the online guestbook at www.bradley-kosec.com
