Mariya Stetsa

Mariya Stetsa, 53, of Eddyville, Iowa and formerly of the Ukraine, passed away Wednesday, July 10, 2013, at her home in Eddyville. Mariya Stetsa, daughter of Yevstahiy and Yevgenia Stetsa, was born, September 9, 1959, in Lviv, Ukraine. Maria was a graduate of the University of Food Industry and then taught classes at the university following her education. She married Roman Nahaylo and two sons were born to that union. They later divorced. Mariya moved to the United States in 1996 to seek a better life and future for her family. Initially she spent a few months in the Chicago area, and then took the opportunity to care for Gladys Jager in Eddyville, Iowa. After Mrs. Jager passed away, Mariya went to work as a cook at Hunter’s Coffee Shop. Mariya married Tom Jager, Galdys Jager’s son. Together, they started gardening and selling their produce and baked and canned goods at the farmer’s markets in Oskaloosa, Ottumwa, Albia and Pella; Mariya also did event catering. Mariya and Tom eventually divorced, yet remained close companions. Mariya remained close to her family in the Ukraine, traveling home each winter to spend time with them. While visiting there she met Oleksandr Gumeniuk. They married, March 4, 2011, in Oskaloosa. They made their home in Eddyville and he joined her in her market gardening. Mariya loved growing and producing things, what started with her studies in Ukraine, continued to be her livelihood and her enjoyment. When it was suggested that she avoid the garden after her cancer treatments, she adamantly refused to sacrifice that part of herself. Mariya was an industrious and generous person, her concern for her family and her church in the Ukraine was always foremost on her mind, she sent supplies, clothing and money as she was able. Mariya’s family includes her husband, Olekasandr Gumeniuk of Eddyville; her sons, Roman Nahaylo of Lombard, IL and Vitaliy Nahaylo of Lviv, Ukraine; two granddaughters: Mily and Lilya Nahaylo at home in Lviv; her mother, Yegenia Stetsa; two sisters: Luba and Irena; and two brothers: Ivan and Roman, all of the Ukraine. Mariya was preceded in death by her father. Visitation will begin at 11 a.m., Friday, July 12, at Garland-Van Arkel-Langkamp Funeral Chapel; the family will be present from 4-6 p.m. to greet visitors. Memorial services will be held at a later date in the Ukraine. PDF Printable Version

Mariya Stetsa

September 9, 1959 - July 10, 2013