— 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
A very talented man, he will be missed by so many.
I’ve known Stan since the mid-1980s. When you spoke to Stan, you got his full attention. He didn’t need to interact with hordes of people, preferring instead to really get to know and understand those with whom he was close. Stan liked the details, in his art and in his surroundings. He would paint countless renditions of a particular scene until he was satisfied with the results. I fondly remember our walks together with my husband and JoEllen on the beautiful island they chose to make their home. What I remember most about Stan is his sense of humor. He loved to laugh, he loved to paint, he loved his life and, especially, he loved JoEllen. May his memory be for a blessing.
I hope there will be an opportunity (virus permitting) to have a show some of Stan’s paintings and drawings. I love his passion about the work.
Stan was all about love. He and JoEllen carried a torch for each other that warmed all who surrounded them. I would often walk by his garage studio and hear the music blaring and know that Stan was deep into the art of the day. I will miss his sweet smile and friendship. And, yes, there is an amazing plan to share his work with the community!
One of most vivid memories of Stan occurred over 30 years ago when he and JoEllen hosted us for dinner in their home in NY. It was winter, our now 32 year old, son’s first Christmas. We brought him in a holiday outfit and Stan took a ton of photographs of him and us as a family. He was jovial as always, patient and a took many many images which we have to this day They are a lovely reminder not only of his photographic skills but his kindness and generosity. The warmth in the home of Stan and JoEllen and the love they shared was palpable and we feel blessed to have known him and to be able to enjoy our ongoing friendship with his beloved wife.
Beautiful tribute for Stan, and window to his creative whimsical soul, JoEllen.
Thanks, JoEllen. It’s good to learn more about Stan. What a pleasure to have known him.
What a beautiful tribute. Stan’s life defending what is right, appreciating nature, creating beauty, and spreading love is an inspiration. We were lucky to share this time on earth with him. A true gentleman and gentle man.