Drégelypalánk, Hungary - 2018
Gyula bácsi was the sole caretaker of the livestock in the buildings of the local old agricultural cooperative. Every day, rain or shine, he cycled there twice to tend to the animals. Despite the demanding physical labor, he was one of the most cheerful people I have ever met—always smiling, always radiating warmth. His dedication was not just about duty; it was an act of love.
Over the years, I had several phone conversations with him. I knew that 2019–2020 had been particularly difficult for him—he lost the love of his life after a long illness. But at the beginning of 2021, he seemed to be doing better. We had plans to take follow-up photos that summer, hoping to continue telling his story.
On March 31, 2021, Gyula bácsi passed away.
I was deeply saddened by the news. His kindness and unwavering spirit left a lasting impression on me.
