— from JoEllen Moldoff —

Stan Moldoff, beloved husband of JoEllen, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on March 31. He was 95 years old. Stan was born in 1925 in New York City, and grew up in the Bronx. 

He began to draw and paint when he was in grade school, and continued to develop in high school. When he reached 18, he enlisted in the army and was soon after shipped overseas where he fought in Alsace, and was injured there. He was award the Purple Heart for his service.

After the war, Stan began a career in advertising as an art director, followed by many years as a professional photographer. He continued to paint throughout this time, and eventually he was able to follow his passion for art as a full time artist. We moved here from NY in 2001.

Stan loved the natural world. He spent time at most of the National Parks, photographing and painting. His studio in Orcas was his true home; he painted there almost every day, always looking forward to the next day’s work. He was especially grateful for the remarkable Orcas Island EMTs, and for the Orcas Island Community Foundation’s tremendous support for our community.

Here is one of the many poems Stan wrote which expresses how he engaged with his outer and inner worlds:

I Stand Before a Great Old Tree

Why do you examine me?

I am impressed by your size and apparent age.

Yes, I am old.

You must have witnessed many things in your life.

I have seen much.

Could you share your wisdom with me?

I cannot give you wisdom.

Then can you offer me some advice that will be helpful?

Question things that are puzzling.

Be discriminating in the knowledge you seek.

Expect to stumble.

Perhaps you will gain understanding.

Stan Moldoff, 6-21-1995

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