Natalie Cvikevich

Natalie Cvikevich (nee. Kovalenko), entered the Kingdom of our Lord on April 24th, 2023. She

was born on May 5th, 1932 in Donetsk (Stalino) USSR. At the age of 13, Natalie and her family

fled the USSR and resided in a displaced persons camp in Germany until immigrating to the

United States in 1951 through Ellis Island in New York City.

Natalie was predeceased by her parents Ivan Kovalenko and Alexandra Frolova; and husband,

Serge Cvikevich. She is survived by her sister, Tanya Whittaker; her four children and their

spouses, Anya (Albert), Maria (Fr. Mark), Peter (Nobuko) and Vera (Miles); along with her

grandchildren and their spouses, Kira (Nicholas), Marina, Paul, Daria, Chris, Laura (Carlos),

Alex (Alex) and Olivia. She is also survived by her great-granddaughter Mila.

Natalie was known for enveloping everyone she met in love and laughter. She was lovingly

known by her family as Baba (short form for Grandmother in her native Russian). She is fondly

remembered for being the best of hosts, always ready to greet you with a glass of prosecco and

the warmest hugs. Countless hours were spent recounting memories of her childhood, surviving

WWII and building a new life in America. Each story was strung with notes of humor and bouts

of laughter despite the challenging circumstances of her youth. Natalie was beloved not just by

her family but by friendships she made throughout her life. She will always be remembered for

how much, how deeply, and how sincerely she loved everyone who was ever blessed to meet

her.

A panihida (prayer service) will be held on Thursday April 27th, 2023 at 5pm at Novo-Diveevo

Russian Orthodox Convent, 100 Smith Road, Nanuet, NY 10954. The funeral service will be held in the same

location on Friday April 28th, 2023 at 11am, burial and repast to follow.

Donations in her honor can be made to any of the following institutions;

Novo-Diveevo Russian Orthodox Convent

100 Smith Rd

Nanuet NY 10954

St Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church

100 Livingston Street

Poughkeepsie NY 12603

Innisfree Foundation

362 Tyrrel Road

PO Box 970

Millbrook NY 12545