Guerman Stefanoff, resident of Croton on Hudson, NY died peacefully in the comfort of his home, surrounded by loved ones, on August 3, 2022 at the age of 96.

He is survived by his 3 children, their spouses, and 8 grandchildren – Lisa Stefanoff & Ronald Imhoff: Jessica, Jamie, Jay and Jon; Laura & Darrin Mills: Trey and Taylor; Stefan & Francine Stefanoff: Annalise and Nikolai; as well as Marion Stefanoff, mother of his children; his nieces, cousins and their families, and very dear friends in Bulgaria.

Guerman was born in Brashlyan, Bulgaria on March 26, 1926, to parents Stefan Stamatov Patrikov and Zlatka Stamatova. From very poor and humble beginnings, and during a tumultuous time of war and oppression, principles such as the importance of family, personal freedom and independence, and taking responsibility for one’s own success in life were strong messages that drove him throughout his life.

In the winter of 1948, a band of cousins embarked on a life-changing adventure – a journey to freedom. Rejecting the war and Communist rule – they narrowly escaped capture as they fled through the forest across the Turkish border. This band of cousins would ultimately be revered and honored in their village as the brave ones who got away. They eventually found their way to Paris, and for Guerman, his path continued to New York City, where he met and married his wife of almost 40 years, Marion Stefanoff.

Guerman built a life in the States, had a beautiful family, and worked as a Stationary Engineer for the City of New York until 1993. He began to divide his time between Bulgaria and the U.S. – gradually spending more and more time in Bulgaria, where he had brothers, extended family, and many interests to pursue. He lived on his own in Bulgaria up until the age of 95.

He will be remembered as a spirited, eccentric and fiercely independent man who had a deep appreciation for living and for life as he often said, “The life is beautiful!"  Like a shark that must stay in motion to survive, so too he was always in motion, driven towards new opportunities, business ventures, and most of all – people. His curiosity about others, his positive outlook and inspiring views on life were like waving a magic wand – people were drawn to him, enchanted by his philosophical perspective, and very often became friends (and fans!) for life. He was well-known as a benefactor and supporter for many people over the years –helping with jobs, finances, and advice through the unique lens of his own experiences.

He was very proud of his accomplishments - including his family. He loved being the center of attention – in fact, he insisted on it! He relished when people thought he was much younger than he was, and he maintained a unique sense of humor throughout his life. He referred to himself as “Living History” and “the Man of the Century” and insisted that we “follow him” because he obviously knew the secrets for living a long, fulfilling life (chain smoking and lard eating aside).

Often, he reflected on the meaning of his life, the role he played and the influence and impact he made – and he insisted that we, too, find the meaning in our lives and to ensure there is meaning in what we do – because Life is Beautiful. 

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