We met Tom and his family in Singapore where he was an active member of the Hungarian community. Although he was very busy travelling most of the time he would never miss the Hungarian gatherings which always ended up singing Hungarian songs. After moving to Hungary he carried on with his active social life. We enjoyed being his guests many times in his house and in restaurants where gipsy band was a must. His positive and optimistic view of life will always remain an example for us. He lived a full life.

Dear Tom, rest in peace! 

It is with immense sadness that we bid farewell to a dear friend, brother, and companion, Tom Takats. Our journey together started in the 90s where we met in Singapore, and from the moment we met, we knew that we had found a special connection.

Tom, Maria, and Attila welcomed us into their home and made us feel like family, a warmth that continued even after they moved to Hungary. Over the years, we went on many holidays together, exploring beautiful places like Thailand, Bali, Scotland, Italy, and Vietnam, with Tom always at the centre of our many joyous parties.

It was during one of these gatherings that Tom officially appointed me as his younger brother, a moment that will forever remain close to my heart, and I will always be grateful for. And when Tom fell ill, I was one of the last friends he recognized. It was a bittersweet moment, but one I will always cherish.

Tom had a light about him that shone through every room, every party, and every moment. He was the life of the party, always ready to sing his favourite Hungarian songs and share good food and drinks with his loved ones.

As we look back on our memories, let us remember Tom's warmth, his kindness, and his unbridled joy for life. He was a true friend, a loving brother, and a rare gem in this world.

Rest in peace, dear Tom. You will always be loved and cherished.

Love, 

Ivan, Radiah and family

Tom, as we knew him, was the life of every gathering… Witty, observant and informative.  We met in Hyderabad in the late 70’s where he brought young Maria, and married her . I still remember the wedding  party . Tom and Maria were generous and caring hosts.  I have stayed with them a few times in Singapore, Atilla was just born then,  and once ,11 years ago ,in Budapest. 

I am grateful to God that three of us spoke on zoom and I got to see Tom. He said goodbye to me blowing kisses. Rest in eternal peace dear friend, you will be missed.

My daughter Emma and I first visited Budapest in 2008 and Tamas and Marie very kindly invited us to stay with them. They were excellent and generous hosts and made us most welcome. Tamas took us around Budapest and other places looking for clues about the de Polnay family. We spent a very moving day at the Jewish cemetery and the Synagogue. Tamas helped me find my Hungarian Jewish roots for which I shall be eternally grateful. My wife, Candice and I had another chance to stay with him and Marie for a couple of days in 2010 during which again they were both most welcome and hospitable. I always wanted to get back but illness and events prevented me from returning. Thank you, Tom for the brief time we were cousins together. God bless you and may you have a safe journey home. Greg 

From Greg de Polnay:

Sadly, even though we were 2nd cousins, we only met up very late in our lives as my father once he had left Hungary in 1926 never wanted to keep in touch again with any of his Hungarian family - not even with his own sister! Tom's grandmother and my grandfather were brother and sister. My father and his mother were 1st cousins which made us 2nd cousins.

Your father and I finally met up in 2008 when he very kindly hosted both my daughter, Emma - your 3rd cousin - at your Budapest home. Your father was able to fill me in with so much history and facts about my side of the de Polnay family. He was more than generous with his time - driving us everywhere, showing us the sights and generally looking after us. I have only very fond memories of him and of your mother.

I managed to get back to Budapest and see your parents once again in 2010 this time with my wife Candice. 

From Andrew:  

Most of our memories of your father were at Charity Balls for the Lions Club, IWC balls , or at your home having a fun time. Thanks to Maria who was Chair of IWC we met your father we connected as 56 ers returning back home.

Tom was the host with the mostest and boy, he could dance even in later years after his knees were not so good he would still shake and move to the music the best he could.

It was through his hospitality we met so many wonderful people most notably Horvat Charlie the singer who's songs we would sing along to on long drives to the countryside.

Tom wherever you are I hope they put you at the head of the table.