Gloria Fonarev

Born on December 24, 1930, in Pryluky, Gloria Korobova-Kolomeyzeva was the youngest of three daughters.  Through her long life her resolve was tested many times. She was one of three sisters to survive the war, lost her father at a young age and was displaced from her home and life many times. But each challenge only made her resolve stronger.  This soft-spoken petite woman was nothing if not a force of nature.

When she was 6 years old, Gloria met a little boy by the name of Lev Fonarev. She didn’t know it at the time, but he would end up being her partner in life for over 66 years. They went to elementary school together but after third grade got separated due to the war when their families had to evacuate. They would meet 15 years later in Moscow, get married and have their daughter, Olga. 

In 1992, Gloria moved with her family to the USA as part of the Jewish immigration wave from Russia, and once again started over.  She loved life - she loved working, traveling, trying new things, she loved knowledge of all types and sharing her wisdom with others. She would listen to the news daily, most days, it was multiple times per day. Despite losing most of her eyesight, she would try to read the Russian newspaper using a magnifying glass.  She also loved art, would know about the latest fashion trends, exhibits in NYC and the detailed programming of who is performing at the Metropolitan Opera this season.  She loved her family deeply and made endless sacrifices to support them.  She had a special bond with her only granddaughter, Tatyana and adored her great grandchildren, Ian and Nathan.   

She will be greatly missed by her friends and family but her legacy and impact on others will live on through many.