July 28, 1948 – December 30, 2023
In Loving Memory of Stefan Bagyura
With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to a remarkable soul, Stefan Bagyura, a retired Austrian diplomat, loving husband & father, and passionate sports enthusiast, who departed this world on December 30, 2023. His life was a tapestry woven with threads of diplomacy, love, sports, and an insatiable curiosity for history, geography, and the stories of the people he encountered.
Born on July 28, 1948, Stefan embarked on a distinguished career as a diplomat, leaving an indelible mark on the global stage. His keen intellect, diplomatic finesse, and unwavering commitment to fostering understanding between nations were the hallmarks of his service. His passion for international relations was complemented by an equally deep love for the histories and cultures of the places he called home. In his 37 years as a diplomat, he had the pleasure of living in 10 countries. He was awarded the Gold Medal of Honor for his outstanding service to the Republic of Austria.
Beyond the world of diplomacy, Stefan had an insatiable curiosity about people. He possessed a unique gift for connecting with others, taking genuine interest in their lives, backgrounds, and aspirations. His ability to uncover what was important to people, to delve into their joys and challenges, created bonds that transcended borders. Whether engaging in a conversation about history or discovering the intricacies of someone’s heritage, Stefan made every interaction a meaningful exchange.
A true connoisseur of knowledge, Stefan reveled in exploring the intricacies of history and geography. His library was a testament to his intellectual curiosity, filled with volumes that spanned the annals of time and the geography of the world. His passion for learning was infectious, inspiring those around him to delve deeper into the richness of human history and the diverse landscapes that define our planet.
Stefan Bagyura was not only a diplomat and a scholar but also a loving husband. His marriage was a testament to the enduring power of love, partnership, and mutual respect. Together with his spouse, Susan, he created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and shared dreams.
As we say our goodbyes, let us remember Stefan Bagyura for the profound impact he had on the world, his genuine connections with people, and his unwavering love for history and geography. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Make-a-Wish reflecting Stefan’s commitment to understanding and enriching the lives of others.
May Stefan Bagyura rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the history and geography he so dearly loved, and the memories of the countless lives he touched.
Julia Prentner
January 24, 2024, 12:49 pm
It is with deep sadness that I learned of the sudden death of Stefan Bagyura. Stefan was the most charismatic person I know and I had the unique pleasure to work with him during my Muscat time. My deepest sympathies, Julia Prentner
My sincere sympathy,
Maddie Michaud
January 24, 2024, 12:50 pm
I’m so thankful God gave me several opportunities to be with Uncle Stefan over the past few years – Spain, Boca, and Black Mountain. He had such a kind heart and a way of making you feel seen and heard by asking questions and really wanting to know more about your life. He had an incredible life with so many fascinating stories, but he made me feel like I had the most interesting life by the way he wanted to know more and how well he listened. He was so loved and will be missed! Xoxo Maddie
Lindsay & the Bellers
January 24, 2024, 12:50 pm
Thank you Uncle Stefan for the mark you made on this world and on our hearts.
Priscilla and Bob Peterson
January 24, 2024, 12:50 pm
I had the unique pleasure of knowing Stefan as my brother – in – law. Stefan had such a disarming way about him; from the very first time I met him, I felt completely at ease – no awkwardness of any kind. He was such a thoughtful and respectful man, a true gentleman in every sense of the word. Yet he was never stuffy and could appreciate my sister Susan’s and my offbeat sense of humor and would readily join in our frequent gales of laughter. Stefan was an incredibly tolerant man who put up with the shenanigans that always ensued whenever Sue and I got together, such as our hysterical giggles about the ermine (« or is it vermin ? ») remarks regarding the royal robes at the national museum in Vienna, and the list goes on. He was such a great listener, giving such focused attention in a way few others could match, which always made me feel so accepted and valued by him. What a blessing to have such a warm and gracious in – law. I will dearly miss his presence.
Barbara and Steve O'Rourke
January 24, 2024, 12:51 pm
My husband Steve and I met Stefan while searching for a second home in Fiddlers in 2017. Over the years we enjoyed our conversations with Stefan of his world experiences as a diplomat. We will miss his kindness, his humor and his engaging personality. We are saddened by his passing. Barbara and Steve O’Rourke
Bob Link
January 24, 2024, 12:52 pm
Stefan and I met walking our dogs in the summer of ‘15. During our many walks we discussed a wide variety of subjects. From the sharing of boyhood memories to current world politics. As an Austrian diplomat, he was especially fond of his assignment to Oman. Sharon and I did not fully appreciate his fondness until we traveled there and saw for ourselves. Stefan was a very good man, one to emulate in all ways. He will be missed. Bob Link