Natalie Wivczar

Natalie Wivczar of Riverhead died her home June 18. She was 75. 

She was born Aug, 3, 1938, in Wading River to Helen (Shwonik) and Harry Wivczar. A quadriplegic for 58 years after contracting polio, Ms. Wivczar spent most of her time in an iron lung. Family members said her pastimes were praying and giving thanks to God, and that Ms. Wivczar often said “I’m lying down on the outside, but often dancing on the inside and the joy of the Lord is my strength.”

Ms. Wivczar is survived by her brother, Ron Shepherd of Cutchogue, as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by two siblings.

The family will receive visitors Saturday, June 21, from 7 to 9 p.m. and Sunday, June 22, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at Reginald H. Tuthill Funeral Home in Riverhead. A funeral mass will take place Monday June 23, at 10 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Church in Riverhead. Burial will take place at the church cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to Stella Maris Community, in care of Sadie Dunbar, 21 Brightview Drive, Rocky Point, NY 11778 or East End Hospice.