Mila Marie Plosky

Mila Plosky passed away peacefully on September 21, 2022, at Inova Fairfax Hospital, surrounded by family and friends and her beloved cat, Beau.

Mila was born on July 22, 1948, in Rheine, Germany, in a post-WWII refugee camp. She emigrated with her family to the United States in 1950 and resided in Lincoln, Nebraska for the rest of her childhood.

Mila graduated from Pious X High School in Lincoln before attending St. Mary’s College in Kansas on a scholarship and then the University of Nebraska. After earning a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin, she went on to become a pioneer for career women in the 1970s and beyond, achieving great heights as a civil servant in the Wisconsin state government. She finished her stellar career working for the Federal Highway Administration in Washington, D.C.

Mila split her time after retirement between her homes in Alexandria, Virginia and Lewes, Delaware. A passionate gardener, her flowers and trees flourished greatly under her care. Mila was a talented chef, and she was always up for trying a new recipe, hosting dinner parties, and visiting new restaurants. She was a nimble seamstress, a self-described “news junkie,” and an avid reader. She had a keen eye for design and oversaw the build of two beautiful homes. Mila also was a great environmental steward.

Growing up on a farm, Mila always had animals in her life. She was particularly fond of Siamese cats and cared for 9 wonderful companions over the course of her life.

Mila was very spiritual in her Catholic faith and proud of her Ukrainian heritage. She kept the Ukrainian language and traditions alive throughout her life. She closely followed the recent crisis in Ukraine and often uttered the phrase, “Slava Ukraini” (“Glory to Ukraine”), in a deeply-felt nod to her roots.

Mila had a cheeky sense of humor and was a great storyteller and adventurer, having visited all 50 states. She was a savvy shopper and never met a “trifecta” (T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, and HomeGoods) she didn’t like. She loved gift-giving, and the notes and cards she sent were always distinguishable by her beautiful cursive handwriting.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Wolodymyr “Walt” and Olga (Klischuk) Plosky. She is survived by her brother, her two nieces, and her nephew. She was affectionately called “Auntie M” by her great-nieces and great-nephews. Along with Ukrainian family and friends across the U.S., Canada, and Eastern Europe, Mila also leaves behind many friends, neighbors, and colleagues who greatly enriched her life.

Mila requested that no formal memorial be held. In honor of her memory, please consider donating to support the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine or to another charitable organization of your choosing.