Kristina Agnes Pete, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2024, ‘névnap’ or Hungarian Name Day, which honoured her birth name Krisztina.
Krista, as her friends knew her, was born in Budapest , Hungary on October 12, 1944 to mother Tolnay Karolina Istvanne and father Istvan Pete. She was the eldest of two daughters.
Krista was born into a world at war and spent her youth and adolescence in a very tumultuous Hungary. She emigrated to Canada in 1976, and shortly afterwards, met her husband and partner, Leslie Agghazy. Together they lived a life of adventure, creativity , and friendships.
They forged a successful partnership in framing and restoration of artworks and established a well-respected art gallery in Calgary, before moving to the West Coast and eventually to their meticulous home and studio in Saanichton.
They enjoyed exploring the coastal waters in their beautiful 42 ft. Yacht, the Sea Shaman, accompanied by their beloved dogs, Bobo and Scruffy.
When Leslie sadly passed away in 2002, Krista created an independent life for herself, relocating to a smaller home that she remodelled, cultivating a lush and varied garden, and enjoying walks by the seaside. She became a familiar figure, towing Scruffy in a trailer behind her bicycle along Lochside Drive.
During her lifetime, Krista struggled with and endured many medical issues, debilitating cancer treatments, and a frustrating health care system. Through them all , she remained optimistic and stalwart. But eventually, the insidious disease proved to be too challenging for even this feisty and resilient woman.
Krista was a remarkable person and a great friend. Strong and courageous, sharp witted, intelligent, fiercely independent, and one who did not suffer fools gladly.
She will be remembered, far and wide, by those who treasured her deeply.
Upon Krista’s request, there will not be a service, as she chose to celebrate her own life well in the weeks preceding her passing. She will rest at a beautiful location that was significant to her.
We will miss you, Krista. ‘Til we meet again’.