Stefania Lewko

Stefania Lewko (Soloducha), 90 of Little Falls, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2024. Beloved wife of the late Petro Lewko. Loving mother to Dr. Michael Lewko of Little Falls and Danusia Lewko. Devoted grandmother to Martha Bloshko. Dear sister of Maria Pietryszyn of Poland.

Born in Verbytsia, Ukraine. In 1947 her family along with the entire village were forced to relocate to eastern Prussia during the Operation Vistula “Aktsia Vislaʼ. During her youth she had survived the horrors of World War II and deportation of Ukrainians. In 1953 she married her beloved husband Petro, who was also born in Verbytsia, and gave birth to Danusia and Mykhailo in Jesiorko, Poland. Stefania along with her husband and son immigrated to the United States in 1964 settling in Jersey City. Danusia, who had suffered paralysis from Poliomyelitis at the age of 2 was reunited with the family 3 years later. In Jersey City’s Ukrainian- American community Stefania became actively involved in community work - she became a member of the 71st branch of the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America, was active in Plast Pryiat , Ukrainian scouting organization, and for ten years sang in choir conducted by maestro Oliynyk. There she was an active parishioner of Saints Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church.
After moving to Somerset, New Jersey, she continued to be active in Ukrainian civic organizations and the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in New Brunswick before moving to Litte Falls in 2006. She has been an active parishioner of St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church in Passaic, until she no longer could physically attend church. She received home hospice care for 11 years living with her handicapped daughter, Danusia. Together they were inseparable, resilient and filled with strength of the Holy Spirit until frailty of the body gave in.

She was a cherished mother, devoted wife, and adoring grandmother. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering devotion to her family. Throughout her life, she found immense joy in caring for her children and grandchild and nieces. Her nurturing spirit and warm embrace created a home filled with love and laughter. She had a passion for cooking, especially for the Ukrainian holidays where she could share her love and create lasting memories with family. She was a well-known seamstress and would sow all the clothes for Danusia. She cherished her moments spent with Danusia, especially, finding joy in their shared experiences and the bonds they strengthened together despite chronic illness. Her positive outlook on life and her ability to find humor in every situation endeared her to all who knew her. Stefania will be deeply missed by her loving family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched with her warmth, generosity, and unconditional love.

This heartfelt tribute beautifully captures the life and legacy of our mother, highlighting her resilience, dedication to family, and active involvement in the Ukrainian- American community. Her journey from Verbytsia, Ukraine, through the trials of World War II and Operation Vistula, to building a new life in the United States, reflects her strength and perseverance. The love she had for her family, especially her daughter Danusia, and her commitment to her faith and community, left a lasting impact on those who knew her.

Funeral from Marrocco Memorial Chapel, 470 Colfax Ave. Clifton on Friday at 9:15 AM then to St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church Passaic at 10 AM. Interment at St. Andrew’s Cemetery in Bound Brook, NJ. Visiting on Thursday from 6 PM to 9 PM.

In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to these organizations in support of Ukraine: Ukranian World Congress Foundation ( www.uwfusa.org ) / Ukrainian Wave Foundation ( ukrainianwave.usa@gmail.com )