Kurt Palka

It is with profound sadness that we share with you the passing of Kurt Palka, journalist and author. On September 18, 2025, after a thankfully short bout of cancer, which he endured with dignity, a never-ending thoughtfulness for everyone involved and, believe it or not, a sense of humour, Kurt died peacefully at home in Port Hope surrounded by his loved ones. Born on November 21, 1941, in Klagenfurt, Austria to parents Kurt Palka (born in Vienna, Austria, 1912) and Reingard Palka née Wiesinger (born in Wels, Austria, 1912), Kurt left home at 18 to pursue a life of his own making, including being a journalist in South Africa, a successful Olivetti salesman in Germany, and making wildlife films across Africa. His journeys led him to Canada, where his work included being a Senior Producer for the CBC, writing for newspapers, including the Globe and Mail and the Chronicle Herald, and being a cameraman for Global TV and W5, which sent him to war-torn countries around the world, including Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Kurt wrote his first novel in the early ‘80s and would go on to write seven more, with his final and most mature (his word) novel set to be published in June 2026. Kurt was meticulous, considerate, funny, and had an admirable ability to focus his attention on one thing at a time for extended periods. He was also supremely disciplined, which made achieving his goals possible. He relished his quiet early mornings, watching the day begin and meditating on how the rest of the day would go, while sipping one, two, three cups of coffee. His knowledge was vast, and his enthusiasm for research was boundless. He found something interesting in everything and everyone, and if at first it wasn’t apparent, he would look closer until he could see it. He never let a thought or idea disappear before securing it safely in his always at-hand pocket notebook. He took care to see the positive perspective and found comfort in recognizing what was within his circle of control. He was an incredibly kind, talented person, and with his passing, the world has lost a wonderful human being. He will forever be missed by his partner, Heather Chisvin, his daughters, Melanie (daughters Aviana and Kalina) and Christina Palka (daughters Annie and Emily, and partner Paul Uveges), his family in Austria and England, Heather’s daughter Elena Chisvin and her children Hazel and Kayden, his friends, and so many others who were touched by his character and writing. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Dying With Dignity (https://www.dyingwithdignity.ca/donate/). A private memorial service has been arranged by the family. Services and memories will be shared at MacCoubrey Funeral Home. Dear Kurtie, wir lieben dich. Auf Wiedersehen.