It is with deep regret that we share the passing of Natalia Guga, who passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 30th at the young age of 55. 

Natalia was a genuinely kind and giving soul to every human and animal she met. She was courageous in her fight and strong willed in everything she set her mind to. She was a pillar in many communities, including the one in Hunter; her neighborhood in Riverdale; her place of work, the New York Public Library; and most importantly — within her family. She always led with her heart, reminding those around her of the significant aspects of life, which to her, were her family, friends, community, and animals. 

She thrived in nature, and was an avid gardener and mushroom picker. She found beauty in the small things most would overlook — a wonderfully colored leaf, or a uniquely shaped piece of driftwood she would find by the river. To her, beauty and magic were all around. One simply had to look closer. 

Natalia was a creative spirit, who in her lifetime loved to craft and design beauty. She was a preschool teacher, for many years, at the Ukrainian Saturday school in New York City. She also continuously helped those in need in Ukraine  — working with orphanages with ailing children, as well as aiding those in need on the current war front. She was proud of her work within the New York Public Library, working hard up until her passing within the Interlibrary Loan department. Amongst all her roles, the most important ones to her were being a mother and wife. 

She was a friend, aunt, sister, mother and daughter. She loved life and lived it to the fullest in every capacity. She is survived by her niece, Yulia; sister, Liudmyla; daughter, Svitlana; husband, Myroslav; and parents, Serhiy and Zoya. 

Calling hours will be held to honor her at Decker Funeral Home 5312 Rt. 23 Windham, on Monday, April 7th, from 1 - 3 pm. A mass will be offered at Saint John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church, NY-23A, Hunter, NY 12442 on Tuesday, April 8th, at 10 am. A memorial will be held in the summertime, around her birthday in July, with details to follow closer to the date.

Condolences may be left at www.deckerfh.com.