Eight Bells: Joe Balogh

Joe Balogh

Joe Balogh, a significant influence in building the 8mR fleet in Toronto, passed away on January 18 at 92 years.

It started with Joe’s purchase of CAN 1 a Fife named Quest. A gifted architect and passionate sailor, his work alongside the Gyles family saw Norseman (built at Royal Canadian Yacht Club), Severn II, Bangalore, Thisbe, Conewago, Vision, Venture II, Ranja, Yquem, Gefion, Raven, and more 8mR’s join, race, and enjoy the amazing sailing that the boat and Lake Ontario offered.

In the winter, Joe was always at his ski chalet in the Blue Mountains area of Collingwood (ONT) where he helped start the 8mR ski day. The fleet’s owners and crew would make the trip to Collingwood, ski, have lunch, and race on a course specifically arranged for the day. Teams and individuals were awarded several interesting prizes, partook in the shotski, and ate an authentic Hungarian Goulash and Strudel that had been started in the early morning.

Whenever asked how he was feeling, Joe’s answer was “pretty medium.” His presence is greatly missed and his memory will be cherished.