Maria Simonow, 88, of Meriden, CT, died April 18, 2012, at Chestelm Rest Home in Moodus, CT after a courageous battle with Alzheimer's. Born March 24, 1924 in the Ukraine a victim of war torn Europe, she was raised by her grandparents. Her small Ukraine village was occupied by Soviet and German militaries which forced Maria at the age of fourteen to flee alone to Germany where she was subjected to German ideology. Maria worked at area camps and farms when she met her husband Peter. Soon after welcoming their son Stanley the couple decided to come to America, arriving on Christmas Eve at Elis Island. The family began their life in the United States on a farm in Southington, CT and later ventured to Meriden, where they had their second son Andrew. Upon retiring from Pratt & Whitney, Maria became a US citizen. A true role model, she was devoted to her church and family. Maria enjoyed gardening and especially loved spending time with her family and friends. Mrs. Simonow is survived by her sons: Andrew Simonow and his wife Nancy of East Hampton, Stanley Simonow and his wife Connie of Ocala, FL and two grandchildren: Sara Simonow and Andrew Simonow both of East Hampton.