Steve Laszlo Szilasi

Istvan “Steve” Laszlo Szilasi was born in Budapest, Hungary, on June 15, 1943, to the late Istvan Szilasi and Ilona Szabo. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters, Klára Szilasi and Magdolna Szilasi.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Gloria Tatiana Ximena Szilasi Ricaurte; his daughter, Gloria Helen Szilasi (Mark Plover); and his newborn grandson and namesake, James Laszlo Plover. He is also survived by his favorite niece, Mária Szabó, whom he affectionately called “little Marika,” as well as his nephew Mihály Szabó, niece Magdolna Szabó, nephew Sándor Szabó, and nephew János Rózsavölgyi.

Steve immigrated to America from Hungary in 1972, arriving with dreams of building a better future for himself. He settled in California, where he started his own business, married, purchased his dream car—a 1977 Mercedes-Benz—and built a life he was proud of.

Steve later moved with his family to North Carolina, where he eventually retired and was able to slow down and enjoy life.

Steve was a charismatic man with strong morals and a generous heart. He was a loving and devoted father, a steadfast provider, and a man who deeply valued his family. His marriage was one of love, mutual respect, and unwavering care. During his final years, his wife lovingly served as his primary caregiver, a testament to the deep bond they shared.

As the father of an only daughter, Steve cherished her beyond measure and took great joy in spoiling her. One of his final joys was living long enough to welcome his first grandchild into the family. Whenever he saw his grandson, he would lovingly say, “Beautiful boy.”

Beyond his roles as a husband and father, Steve had a deep appreciation for music and the simple pleasures of life. In his younger years, he enjoyed listening to Elvis Presley, The Beatles, ABBA, and The Doors, as well as watching classic films such as The Good, the Bad and the Ugly and My Fair Lady. Music remained an important part of his life throughout the years, and he continued listening to the music he loved until his final days.

He will be deeply missed by the family who loved and treasured him.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date at the family residence.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Humane Society of Charlotte in honor of Steve’s memory and his love of animals.