Sofia, Bulgaria – Todor Slavkov, grandson of former Bulgarian leader Todor Zhivkov, died on July 21 at the age of 54. His daughter, Catherine, shared poignant photos of them together on Facebook.
“Dear Katie,” wrote journalist Petya Dikova in a touching comment. “You carry the genes of your exceptional father, the power of his spirit! Let our memories and lessons give you courage and show you the right path.” Others, like Simeon Kamenov and Boyka Stoyanova, offered words of support, assuring her she is “a brave girl” who “will handle it” and to “be a strong sweet child.”
Hundreds Gather to Bid Farewell
Earlier today, hundreds of relatives and friends gathered at the Mira Funeral Complex within the Central Sofia Cemeteries to say their final goodbyes to Slavkov. He was laid to rest on Thursday morning.
Among those in attendance was Sylvia Dimitrova, mother of Catherine. Ralitsa, the elder daughter from a relationship with Polly Pantev, also paid her respects. Hristo Krusharski, on whose property Slavkov died, was present, as was Valya, Ivan Slavkov’s last wife. Slavkov’s sister, Zhenya Zhivkova, arrived early to receive condolences, accompanied by her young daughter Andrea. Notable figures from various fields also attended, including football legends Chavdar Tsvetkov and Emil Velev, Yancho Takov, Evgeni Minchev, chef Uti Bachvarov, and Ruslan Vutsov, the elder son of Ivan Vutsov.
Artist Alexander Balkanski, a close friend, was visibly emotional. Former VIP Brother participant Zornitsa Lindareva also struggled to contain her feelings. Ralitsa Baleva, a highly successful former model who splits her time between the United States, Switzerland, and France, came to bid farewell to her long-time friend, Todor Slavkov. Zhenya Zhivkova’s ex-husband, Andrei, was also among the mourners.
A Family Marked by Tragedy
Slavkov was buried near the graves of his grandfather, Todor Zhivkov, and his mother, Lyudmila.
Todor Slavkov, born May 18, 1971, was the son of Ivan Slavkov and Lyudmila Zhivkova. He was named after his grandfather. His half-sister is Zhenya Zhivkova.
He graduated from the First English Language High School in 1989 and later studied business management in Switzerland.
His death occurred in the village of Assen after he shot himself with a legally owned revolver. Weeks prior, he had reportedly retreated to a secluded property owned by Hristo Krusharski, president of Lokomotiv, near Pavel Banya.
The date of July 21 holds particular sorrow for the family. It was on this day, 44 years ago, that Todor’s mother, Lyudmila Zhivkova, was found deceased at the State Residence in Boyana. At the time of that tragedy, Todor was just 10 years old. Furthermore, on July 21, four years ago, his uncle, Vladimir Zhivkov, also passed away.
Authorities have initiated pre-trial proceedings to investigate the suicide, a standard procedure in such cases.
