It is with heavy hearts that the family of Karol Anthony Galas announce his untimely passing on the morning of April 8th, 2023. Karol was born in Montreal, Quebec, on April 23rd, 1954; and passed in one of his beloved places, Antigua, at the age of 68.
Karol is survived by his loving wife, Magdalena, and children, Erik (wife; Genevieve and daughters Celia and Sophie) and Stephanie (partner; Carlo and sons Mossimo and Aldario).
He is predeceased by his father Karol (Charlie) Anthony Galas, and survived by his mother Katharine Galas; his brothers, Richard Galas and Edward Galas (wife Linda and niece Kaitlynn).
Karol will also be deeply missed by his German family; sister-in-law, Monika Santo (partner; Gerd Köbschall); his brother-in-law Reinhard (wife; Heidrun), and brother-in-law Hubert (wife; Jenny, and his nieces Stella and Nayla).
Karol was particularly close to his Onkel Helmut, Tante Anni, cousins Regina, Andreas, Birgit and Dirk-Reiner. He also had fond memories with his cousin Grażyna Galas as well as Edmund, Walter, and Stanley Galas.
Professionally, Karol served the Canadian military for 32 years in the Armored Corps across 8CH, RCD, 427, 444, 12RBC and in Ottawa at DND. After the military, he spent 10 years working as a security and logistics consultant in Chad and Mozambique.
After his retirement and relocation to Vancouver Island, Karol was able to live out a lifelong dream of being out on the ocean by volunteering for the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue at Stations 59 (Deep Bay) and 60 (Comox).
His loss will also be deeply felt by his group of dearly loved friends who made up his chosen family in Ottawa, Comox, Germany, Antigua and Africa; as he lived his life, he had family all over the world. Thank you for the comforting words and prayers.
A special thank you to Greg & Mary, Chris & Dawn, Jeff & Carol, Tim & Ute, Catherine & Luke and Michael; who were in Antigua and provided unwavering support, kindness and care.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, July 11th at Beechwood, Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services at 10am followed by the interment in the National Military Cemetery of Canada.
Karol's wishes were that in lieu of flowers please consider a donation to either the Canadian Cancer Society (https://cancer.ca/en/) or Dyslexia Canada (https://www.dyslexiacanada.org/)
Digital Guestbook
Hélène Richardson
Sieglinde Asselin
My deepest sympathy to the whole family. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
My heart goes out to you.
John “ Tiny “ Huddleston
I worked with Karol in Pemba. He was a stand up man. We hosted numerous steak nights at his house. Great man called home to soon
Til Valhalla
Semper Fidelis
Tiny
Colleen & Real Munger
Deepest condolences to Magdalana , family and friends. Our military family will miss him dearly.
Manfred & Isolde Winter
We will always be grateful for the privilege of having known Karol as such a wonderful friend. Always kind, always helpful, he will live on in our memories. Please accept our sincere condolences for your tragic loss of a great husband and father.
Gone too soon but not forgotten.
Raymond Brown
I met Karl just the once at Catherine/lukes wedding last year in Oshawa but he left a lasting impresion,a dear friend and will be sadly missed by one and all
Stella Agostino and Elena Agostino
Our thoughts and hearts are with you.
Karen and Tony Agostino
Beautiful service and life of Karol.
Brian Clements
I met Karol in 1979 while serving with 427 Squadron LOH flight. After getting over his height, the next thing I noticed was he always had a smile and laughed and joked a lot. He had a good spirit and saw the good in people and things. Although our paths didn't cross much after that, I was happy to hear he had a very successful career. My sincere condolences to his wife and family. RIP
Linda Leslie
We are deeply sorry for your tragic loss of a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. Our deepest condolences to family and friends. ?
Gone too soon but not forgotten.
John and Linda Leslie
Deepest Sympathy to Magdalena, children et respective Families.
Karol was as big as Life itself and will be greatly missed, but never forgotten. May you rest in Peace…