Obituary of Charles Szell

Charles Széll (Széll Karoly) passed away peacefully in the early morning of April 25,

2026. He was a longtime resident of Northeast Philadelphia, PA and spent his last few

years in Yardley Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center.

Charles was born on April 21, 1949, in Komádi, Hungary in the house his grandfather

built. He grew up in the small farming village and completed his mandatory military

service. Charles was drawn to math and had a lifelong love of chess. In the 70s, he

made his way to Germany where he worked as a translator while applying for a USA

Green Card. He came to the United States as a refugee and soon became a

naturalized citizen. Charles took computer classes at Penn State and was passionate

about advances in computer technology. His work often involved repairing and

maintaining computer hardware and large machinery. In addition to math, chess, and

Computers, Charles had a deep love of astronomy, blackjack, and wine.

Charles is predeceased by his parents, Széll Karoly and Rosza (née Varga). He is

survived by his sister, Katy; ex-wife, Frances; his three children, Pam, Victoria (Sissy),

and Charles Jr.; two grandchildren, Montgomery August Smith and Emily

Elizabeth Széll.

A Memorial Service will be planned for a later date.

For those wishing to make a charitable donation in his memory, please contribute to HIAS Pennsylvania https://hiaspa.org.