Alex Szilagyi killed in Good Friday motorbike crash at Holmview, Logan
People from across the world are paying tribute to the father-of-four killed in a motorbike crash on Good Friday as more than $130,000 is raised for his family.
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People from across the world have paid tribute to a father-of-four killed in a motorbike crash in Logan on Good Friday as a GoFundMe campaign raises more than $130,000 for his family.
Alex Szilagyi died after the motorbike he was riding collided with a car at the intersection of Pepper Tree Drive and Teys Road about 12.30pm.
His pregnant wife Debbie witnessed the crash.
A GoFundMe was established to support the family and pay for Mr Szilagyi’s funeral, and as of 3pm Sunday had raised $131,775.
Mr Szilagyi helped translate Romanian to English to students at the Bethany Apostolic Institute of Theology in Myanmar.
The school’s pastor, Dr Jethro Ngo Kho, posted a touching tribute on behalf of the student body about his “brother” and “hero”.
“I would like to express a word of thanks to Alex and his family for what he has done for us and for our country. He was a great blessing of God for all of us,” Dr Ngo Kho said.
Dr Ngo Kho said Mr Szilagyi was a “kind, humble and patient” teacher who was “strong in faith”.
He said the students vowed to follow the “good example” Mr Szilagyi set.
“His face was always smiling,” he said.
“His words of translation and his encouragement for us were so valuable and great blessings for us. We were so encouraged by his life and his message.
“Thank you so much for your hard work for all of us. You are our hero. Our heart is broken and we love you so much.”
Ioan Pumunt who donated to the GoFundMe campaign said Mr Szilagyi was a “gifted and generous man who lived to serve others”.
“In a life tragically cut short Alex touched the lives of many at home and abroad,” he said.
“His enthusiasm and passion for God, Ministry and helping those in need was inspirational.
“Through his dedication and hard work, he was instrumental in his support for the orphanage project in Uganda while transforming the lives of the children.
“Alex will be forever missed by many, we are heart broken and grieving with those who will miss him most.
“Debbie, we want to send you our love, continue to pray for and support you, the kids and the extended family through this difficult time.”
On Saturday, friends paid tribute to Mr Szilagyi, saying his death “hit home hard”.
“Still can’t believe it’s true,” Mark Moldovan posted on Facebook.
“My good friend Alex unfortunately was killed in a tragic accident yesterday and now leaves behind his beautiful wife, four children and their baby he’ll never get to hold or meet!
“I want to honour this mighty man of God because he was truly an example to me and also to many others also.
“Not many people know but Alex helped me a lot throughout my struggles as a young kid at church and going into my teenage years! He would pick me up on his motorcycle to take me out with the youth, to church and also to church outings.
“He was always there when I needed someone to talk to and to encourage me when I felt alone or lost. I have so many memories that I have never forgotten.
“Please pray with me for this beautiful family! They need our prayers more than ever before. And donate out of the abundance God has given you.”
Another of Mr Szilagyi’s friends, Patricia Nicula, shared her shock on Facebook.
“Devastating news that hit the Romanian community and other friends/personnel that knew Alex across Australia and other parts of the world with immense shock,” Ms Nicula said.
“With the tragic passing of Alex Szilagyi, our hearts are heavy and sit in sadness with our Sister Debbie, his beautiful wife left behind with four young children and one on the way.
“I know that if there was one thing that he would want to share with everyone, would be the gift of Salvation.”
A GoFundMe page has been set up for Mrs Szilagyi, with money raised to help pay for the funeral.