Tatiana Moroz

Tatiana Golovaty Moroz, 91, died Feb. 28 in Sandpoint. An immigrant youth who came to America by ship, she became a patriotic and proud citizen while never forgetting her turbulent upbringing. Born in Athens, Greece on December 13, 1928, she was the second of four children to Nicholas and Maria Golovaty, Russian émigrés who met in Greece after fleeing turmoil in the early Soviet Union. Her childhood years were peaceful with a gazebo and nut trees gracing the family’s small yard.

The Axis invasion of Greece in 1941 abruptly ended her formal education, as schools were repurposed as cafeterias and barracks. By 13 she was peeling potatoes in cafeteria kitchens and waiting tables in Nazi dining rooms. Eventually the family escaped to Austria and then Italy, staying 3 years before securing visas to the United States. In 1947, they boarded the S.S. Marine Shark in Naples and set sail for Ellis Island.

After settling in New Jersey, she met World War II veteran Wasil “Russ” Moroz whom she married May 22, 1948. They raised four children in Howell, NJ before moving to Sagle in 1986. A gifted conversationalist with an exceptional memory, she spoke five languages and captivated listeners with her intriguing memoirs. She loved antiques and collecting depression glass. A devoted wife and mother, she was happiest when caring for her family, her plants, and the wildlife that flourished around her home.

She is survived by her sons Paul and Peter, and grandchildren Kym and Ryan. She was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years Wasil, siblings Lutmila, Nicholas Jr., and Peter, and her children Maxim and Maria. A brief service and viewing will be held March 1 at Coffelt Funeral Services at 2 p.m. Burial will take place March 2 at Moscow Cemetery at 1 p.m.